Julia Ann Berry

Julia Ann Berry passed away peacefully at home on April 19, 2019, after a long and well-fought battle with cancer. Julia was born in Dallas, Texas on February 3, 1941 to Woodrow and Evelyn Mitchell. She was a member of the first graduating class of Bryan Adams High School in 1959, then went on to earn a Secretary of Science Degree from North Texas State University. She married her high school sweetheart, Richard, on August 18,1962 at City Temple Presbyterian Church in Dallas. Over the years, Julia held many secretarial positions at several places including Dallas Power and Light, Sears, SMU, and then finally at her very favorite place to be, her church, Park Cities Presbyterian. Julia and Richard were charter members of Northpark Presbyterian Church of Dallas, and attended there 35 years. While there, Julia held the presidency for a time over the Women’s Association of Northpark, and also enjoyed her longtime membership in the Sunbonnet Lou Garden Club. She tried to pass on her knowledge of all things flowers to her daughters (and anyone who would listen.) She could tell you each and every name of the plants in her garden, and where they had come from. And it wasn’t enough just to stroll through her garden with her, she wanted you to stop and smell the roses. Literally. She was the recipient of many overwatered, neglected plants whose owners thought they would never make it, but they would give them to Julia and she would revive them. And then, usually, they would morph into super-plants. Her ability to care and nurture was a God-given gift. And that went for people, too. She just knew how to love people well. Even in her final days on this earth, she was the one encouraging others who came to visit her.

She exuded joy. She modeled humility. She always thought of others before herself.

Her light and strength came from her relationship with Jesus Christ. He was her foundation, and she His faithful servant.

Julia is survived by her husband of 56 years, Richard Berry; her children, Todd Berry, Cindy Light, Stephanie Billimek and her husband John, and Jenni Bailey and her husband Bryan. She dearly loved her four grandsons, Travis Light, James Light, Andy Billimek, and Caden Bailey, as well as her many great grandchildren. Julia is also survived by her brother, Woodrow Mitchell and his wife Lisa and their family, as well as her brother-in-law, Vince Berry and his wife Bernice and their family.

The family wishes to thank all of the amazing family, friends, and caregivers who supported and loved Julia so well during this journey. We are grateful to God for each and every one of you.