Kenneth (Ken) Lee Berry

Kenneth Lee Berry (Ken) passed away in his family home on Wednesday, July 19 in the evening surrounded by loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, CK and Madge Berry and beloved brother, Charles Berry. His surviving family includes his wife of 60 ½ years, Dottie, and sons and daughters-in-law Mike and Audrey Berry and Tony and Karla Berry. Grandchildren; Chelsea and Brennan Berry, Anthony Berry, and Alex and Ben Cash. Great-grandchildren; Maddux Cash and Sawyer Berry. He also leaves brothers-in-law William (Susan) Byrd and Bobby Byrd.

He was a valued educator for over 40 years, serving at Gatlinburg Pittman High School, Everett School, and he spent the majority of those years with Alcoa City Schools. His tough love and compassion for his students was always evident and was his life’s mission. He influenced the lives of so many young people and their families over the years. As a football coach at Alcoa Junior High School for over 30 years, he portrayed strength, a hard work ethic, and fierce spirit of competition. He believed in always expecting the best, providing the best, and simply doing your best.

Family was also of the utmost importance to him. His valued respect for his extended family members, who helped mold him as a young child into the strong leader he became, was ever present. His appreciation and pride for his family was his legacy.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of His Life at the Maryville College Alumni Gym on Saturday, July 29. A brief program will be held at 1:00 p.m. Casual Attire.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Maryville College Athletics Department or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.