James Daniel Berry, Jr

James D. “Jim” Berry passed from this earth on January 30, 2026. Jim was born to J. D., Sr. and Lorraine Berry in Michigan on April 28, 1945.

He attended Murphy High School in Atlanta, Ga, where he excelled in sports. After graduation he received a scholarship to play football and baseball at Florida State University. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree and pursued a coaching career. He spent 30 years coaching the Baker Gators and led the J.V. team to four straight unbeaten seasons. He also coached baseball, girls’ basketball and softball. He was an assistant coach when the Gators won the football state championships in 1983, 1984, 1985, and 1993.

Jim is predeceased by his parents, J. D. Sr., and Lorraine Berry; his son Jonathan Berry; his father and mother-in-law Robert and Jean Cobb; and sisters-in-law Linda Berry and Linda Cobb Maloy and brother-in-law, Sam Brunson.

He is survived by his son, James D. Berry III “Trey” (Michelle) and his beloved grandchildren, Noah, Sydney and Jack; his brothers, William “Bill” Berry, Kim Berry (Diane) and his sister, Dixie Mullaney (Patrick) as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Patsy Cobb; former sisters-in-law; Betty Brunson, Judy Fowler (Mike), Jan Blocker, Terry Thames (Chuck) and former brothers-in-law Bob Cobb and Steve Matthews.

He will sincerely be missed by all who knew him. His grandchildren will forever miss their beloved “Coach.”

Throughout his life Jim was endeared by many friends too numerous to name. However, the family would like to thank Kevin Morgan and Dilly Webb for their faithfulness in checking on him.

Jim enjoyed his trips to Biloxi and was often seen purchasing Florida lottery scratch-off  tickets.

A time of visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 6:00-8:00pm at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Coach by purchasing a Florida lottery scratch off ticket or have a bowl of lima beans, his favorite, at the Gator Café.

There will be a private Family Only interment where Jim will be laid to rest by his son Jonathan Berry.

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