Welcome, Guest Log in or Register


Search Obituaries:
     

Advanced Search                     Show Popular Searches


 

       
  

This page has been viewed 3694 times    
 
Debra Sue "Deb" Berry
Debra Sue Cross and FlamePastor Debra Sue “Deb” Berry passed away peacefully June 4, 2024 in her home. A beloved and cherished member of the community, she dedicated 25 years of her life serving as a beacon of faith and hope.

Debra was born November 27, 1956 in Norwalk OH to the late Theodore and Mildred (Deitrick) Kearney. She was also preceded in death by her brother Theodore Kearney, sister Donna Feichtner, brothers-in-law John Feichtner and Mike Berry, as well as a nephew Owen Feichtner.

Deb was a graduate of Ehove JVS in Norwalk. She then went on to the Duke Seminary receiving a pastoral degree and would ultimately become and Associate Pastor through the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church in 2010. From 1999-2010, she passionately preached at Holgate Methodist Church, leaving an unforgettable mark on all who had the privilege to hear her. Alongside her duties, in recent years, she shared her wisdom and kindness as a part time pastor and a friend to all in the congregation at Rhinehart United Methodist Church.

Prior to her passing, Pastor Deb was appointed to start as pastor at LaRue United Methodist Church, where her guidance touched countless lives. Debra served as the church secretary, bringing her dedication and organizational skills to the community she loved.

Beyond her ministry, Debra found comfort in the simple joys of life; gardening and cherishing moments with her beloved friends and pets were some of her favorites. But most of all, she adored her family, particularly her two grandchildren. She leaves a legacy of compassion, faith, and love that will forever be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us all.

Deb is survived by her husband, Richard (Rick) Berry, and they were married September 16, 1978 in Columbia, SC after just 3 months of knowing one another. This September would’ve been 46 years of marriage. Also surviving is their son, Tony (Amanda Harvey) Berry of LaRue; a granddaughter, Korryn Berry of LaRue; a grandson, Coltin Berry of St. Paul, MN; sisters-in-law Sharon Kearney and Sokim Berry; and a cousin and lifelong friend Luana (John) Mathew. Last but not least, she is survived by her 3 dogs and 2 cats whom she and Rick shared together.

Funeral Services will be held Monday June 10, 2024 at 11:00 am at the LaRue United Methodist Church, pastor Mike Raypholtz will officiate, burial will follow in the LaRue Cemetery. Friends may call Sunday from 2-4 pm at the Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home in LaRue.

Memorial gifts can be made to the LaRue United Methodist Church at 166 N High St. LaRue, OH 43332 or the Rhinehart United Methodist Church at 17680 Twp Rd 195 Kenton, OH 43326.

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com


Directions to LaRue Cemetery




Florist Login
Condolences       to

#1 from: William Gilbert sr
Kenton ohio
Thu, Jun 6, 2024 at 1:19 PM

My sincere condolences to all the family on your loss .



#2 from: Brent Harper
Marion
Thu, Jun 6, 2024 at 3:25 PM

My thoughts go out to you Tony and your Family at this Troubling time. I didn’t know Debbie well , but see her presence in her Son and Grandchildren. My Condolences go out to the entire Berry family God Bless you All Brent Karla Harper



#3 from: Hendry Family
Safford , AZ
Thu, Jun 6, 2024 at 7:02 PM

We are sending our love from Arizona .



#4 from: Rita and Tom Flory
Espyville
Thu, Jun 6, 2024 at 8:52 PM

We are so saddened to hear of this loss. Debby has meant so much to so many people including us.  All our love and prayers are being sent to you, Tony and Rick, so you can get thru this grief. We are here for either of you should you want to just talk, or need anything we can provide to you.



#5 from: Jerry & Marlene Castle
Queen Creek, Arizona
Thu, Jun 6, 2024 at 10:04 PM

Deb, I will miss our late night Facebook messages! I remember our last conversation on Sunday and the last words you said, God always has a plan. Well his plan was to take you home! Your work here on earth is complete. I am sad because you are gone, but I am happy knowing you are in Heaven and have achieved the greatest gift of all, Eternity! My prayers go out to Rick, Tony and all of Deb’s family and friends. Our memories last forever….



#6 from: Judy Linder
Collins. Ohio
Thu, Jun 6, 2024 at 11:24 PM

Debi will be truly missed. I have known her for at least 60 yrs. She was loved by all. Went to school with her at Norwalk High School. Besides her faith and the church, she was a great baker, made my 35th Anniversary cake. Thoughts and prayers to Rick, Tony, and the rest of the family.



#7 from: Faith Whitaker
Tiffin,oh
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 12:33 AM

As we are all family we will get through this hard time whether we like it or not. God sadly has our day that we will pass planned out and hers just so happened to be that day and time. She will be missed. But we are all in this together!!❤️



#8 from: Hendry Family
Safford , AZ
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 2:48 AM

We are sending our love from Arizona .



#9 from: Pat Burk
Marion Ohio
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 5:32 AM

Sorry for the loss sending prayers to the family and friends



#10 from: Wendy Crabtree
 
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 7:49 AM

I was shocked and saddened to see  Deb passed. Sorry for your loss Berry family.



#11 from: Herb and Susan Conroy
Morral, Ohio
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 8:10 AM

Sorry for your loss.  Our prayers are with your family.



#12 from: Milton and Peggy Lightfoot
 
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 10:05 AM

Our deepest sympathy Rick to you and your family Sincerely Milton and Peggy Lightfoot



#13 from: Joseph Derringer
Arizona
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 10:32 AM

SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS! My condolences.



#14 from: Susie Kennedy
LaRue
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 2:27 PM

My deepest sympathies!!  Deb was an inspiration to me and all around her!! My prayers  and hugs to one and all!!



#15 from: Lauren Park
�LaRue
Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 11:10 PM

Deb’s passing leaves a huge void in the hearts of many. Our deepest sympathy and many prayers for Rick,Tony and family. May God bring peace and comfort as only He can! 🙏🙏



#16 from: Paul McMahan
Pueblo West, Colorado
Sat, Jun 8, 2024 at 2:12 PM

I did notice t know Deb. But the Berry boys were my friends and neighbors growing up in LaRue. My condolences to the family. 🙏



#17 from: Linda Gruhler
Stockbridge, GA
Sat, Jun 8, 2024 at 3:50 PM

Those who live in our memories are never truly gone. May all of you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you. I Pray for comfort and peace for you in the difficult days ahead.  I'm so sad for your loss.  Thinking of you... Linda (Beckel) Gruhler



#18 from: Cathy Pask
Marion
Sun, Jun 9, 2024 at 7:42 AM

Rick I'm so sorry for your loss. This was a shock to hear. You and all the family are in my prayers and continued prayers for your health.



#19 from: Michelle Pelham
 
Sun, Jun 9, 2024 at 8:07 AM

I am truly saddened to hear of Debi’s passing, my heart and prayers go out to her husband and family. I have known Debi my entire life, she was the most genuine ,caring person , touched many lives with her kindness.



#20 from: Pat and Deb Ehlers and family
Leipsic, ohio
Sun, Jun 9, 2024 at 10:25 AM

We are so very sorry for your loss. Pastor Deb always had and will hold a special place in our hearts! She helped us out so much when our girls were younger. Our hearts break for all of you. You all are in are thoughts and prayers!!!🙏😥❤️



#21 from: Bobbi Scott
Continental Oh
Sun, Jun 9, 2024 at 11:51 AM

Prayers and hugs for Rick and the family.   Deb was Ann inspiration to our family from the first time we met.  



#22 from: Cynthia Oberdier
Richwood
Sun, Jun 9, 2024 at 1:44 PM

My deepest condolences to Rick, family and friends. I am happy Deb got to pass my path on this journey of life. I know she will be missed.



#23 from: Sue Persinger Harrison
New Bloomington , Ohio
Sun, Jun 9, 2024 at 7:29 PM

Met Deb at one of the Elgin alumni. She and Rick opened their to the class of 70 for summer fun and good memories with Love and Care. She will always be a member of the class of 70 from Elgin high school my thoughts and prayers are with Rick and family.



#24 from: Marc Miley
Napoleon Ohio
Mon, Jun 10, 2024 at 6:51 AM

We were shocked to hear about Debs passing. Pastor Deb was a great Pastor and friend. She meant alot to our family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Rick and the family from the Miley family



#25 from: Aubrey, Kim, and Brian
Delaware, Ohio
Mon, Jun 10, 2024 at 9:19 PM

We miss you dearly. You are a wonderful Aunt/Great Aunt and friend. You have a special place in our hearts forever. We love you ❤️!



#26 from: Kitty Marsh
Marion Ohio
Mon, Jun 10, 2024 at 10:24 PM

I Never knew Pastor Deb, Had just met her earlier this past spring at an Eatery in Marion.Ohio .Was introduced to her and  Her Husband. .Was Happy to meet them both.And Now I’m sorry to hear about Rick’s illness and The passing of his Dear Deb .REST IN PEACE 🙏AND GOD BLESS YOU RICK , CONTINUED PRAYERS FOR COMPLETE HEALING 🙏



#27 from: MARY ANN SNYDER
LA RUE, OHIO
Mon, Jun 10, 2024 at 10:54 PM

NO WORDS CAN EXPRESS MY FRIENDSHIP WITH DEBI.I WILL MISS OUR LONG PHONE CALLS AND CHATS TRYING TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE. RICK, MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR PUPPIES.THEY WANT DADDY HOME NOW!!! ONE MORE TIME FOR DEBI.....GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME, AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD.



#28 from: Frank and Judith Bozman
Rushsylvania, Ohio 43347
Tue, Jun 11, 2024 at 10:14 AM

Debi You and I bonded and I will miss you dearly. You was proud of me and I also was proud of you watching each other grow closer to God in our different ways to help people grow closer to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Love you 😍 Judy Bozman. I know you are in good hands because the Ballinger’s are cousins to my kids, the Johnson’s  Blessing to you all! I would of been to the funeral but we were burying my Grandson the same day as they were you 🛐☦️💟💔



#29 from: JJ & Lisa Appelfeller
Fort Worth, Texas
Wed, Jun 12, 2024 at 7:44 AM

Rick, We are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences and prayers.



#30 from: Michele Holloway
Mount Angel, Oregon
Fri, Jun 21, 2024 at 5:48 PM

I have many memories of Deb as part of our clergy colloquy. It was fun being with her and I know she will be greatly missed. May your family find comfort in knowing the many lives she touched.




View Index | Notify Me | Print Condolences


Home | History | Pre-Planning | Obituaries | Archives | Contact Us | Florists | Hotels | Obit Alerts

Copyright © 1969 - 2024 Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Homes, Inc.
Sat, 27 Jul 2024 01:31:00 EDT