James Oliver Berry, Jr. was born in Cleveland, Ohio to the union of James, Sr., and Mary Berry on July 13th, 1971. He was affectionately known to his family as “Jamie.” He spent most of his formative years in the Bedford City School District and graduated from Bedford High School in June of 1989. In August of that same year, James went on to pursue collegiate studies at Bowling Green State University for the next 3 years. After a hiatus from secondary education, James completed his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix in 2011.

James kept himself involved in various extracurricular activities throughout his youth; playing for the community baseball league and committing to participation in Boy Scouts of America where he achieved the organization’s highest distinction of Eagle Scout in 1989. During the school year, James was an active member of the BHS marching band brass section, where he faithfully played the trumpet.

James established a persistent work ethic in his early teens. While in high school, some of his first employers included Geauga Lake Amusement Park and Randall Park Mall. In adulthood, he quickly found his niche in sales and held down various positions in medical and technological sales throughout his career. His most recent role was with Technical Consumer Products, Inc. where held the position of Territory Sales Manager. For the past several years, in addition to his regular workday and weekends, James has endeavored in his entrepreneurial pursuit as the Owner/Operator of Relentless Landscaping, LLC.

In June 2001, James married Rhonda Benjamin. On September 4, 2003, they welcomed their one and only beloved baby girl Janna Olivia Berry. Following Rhonda’s untimely death when Janna was 2 years of age, James and his daughter were “joined at the hip” and set out to journey through life and her various milestones together. James was intentional in his quest to involve Janna in many of his favorite activities including traveling, attending sporting events, and exploring local eateries and fine dining.

James departed for his eternal home on Friday, March 03, 2023, at the age of 51. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rhonda Berry, and father, James Sr.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his daughter, Janna Berry; his devoted mother, Mary Berry; his sister, Crystal Berry; his best friend, Eric King (Leslie); long-time companion, Stephanie Braxton; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family, as well as a very tight-knit group of friends.

James Oliver Berry, Jr. was a one-of-a-kind presence that will truly be missed.