NEW BEDFORD — Generous and Beloved Matriarch, Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Alma B. Berry, passed away on March 6, 2011, surrounded by her family, after a sudden illness.
Matriculated from The White Home at St. Luke's Hospital in 1940 with a degree in Nursing, by all accounts Alma was an absolute "cracker-jack" RN and a devoted, loyal friend.
Throughout her life, she was an unending supporter of those in need. She volunteered for Samaritans for almost fifteen years, drove for cancer patients, took in unwed mothers with nowhere to turn, and tirelessly visited the sick and comforted those seeking the healing warmth of a clear, loving light.
Alma was a devoted and active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Dartmouth. As such she happily served faithfully in many capacities for which she will forever be loved and remembered.
Those close to her knew a connection of strength and presence special with so few we encounter in life. Alma was truly a remarkable woman expressing exceptional generosity while always being forthright and clear in empowering others.
On February 5, 1944, she married Franklyn D. Berry, MD, who preceded her. She is survived by her two daughters, Susan Berry and Christine Berry of South Dartmouth, and her son, Wilton Berry of Denver, Colorado; and six grandchildren, Christine Cheney, Jeffrey W. Bates, Selena Spell, Miriam Bates, Justin Berry and Benjamin Berry, as well as thirteen great-grandchildren, all of whom valued her involvement in their lives and will miss her dearly. She also leaves behind her beloved cat "Charlie."
Memorial and private funeral services were held on March 8, 2011 in Dartmouth.
In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be made to the Salvation Army or the Wounded Warriors Project.
Profound thanks to the kind and gracious nurses and staff on Wilks Two at St. Luke's Hospital for their sensitive care of Alma and their many considerations shown to her family.
All she touched now lovingly and humbly bid her Adieu — May You Find Peace... Be Forever Happy and Well"¦ Our Dear and Beloved Alma.