Obituary of Henry Thomas Berry
Henry Berry, former Mayor of Rockdale, IL, passed away peacefully Thursday, October 28, 2021 at the age of 81.
He was born on October 5, 1940, to the late Grace (nee Strating) Luebs and Everett Berry in Beckley, West Virginia. Henry married Delores “Laurie” Veal on April 29, 1961.
Henry was a lifelong Rockdale resident committed to the community. He had an entrepreneurial spirit, which led him to open and run Henry’s Hotdogs for several years while also serving as the mayor of Rockdale.
Along with his love for his community, Henry was devoted to his family. He was his grandchildren’s biggest fan, and always enjoyed attending their events throughout the years, from graduations to sporting events and band concerts. Henry also looked forward to lunch with his friends every Saturday afternoon.
In addition to his adored wife of 60 years, he is also survived by his son-in-law, Thomas “Tom” O’Brien; grandchildren, Ashlyn O’Brien, Molly (Tyler) Bordner and Colin O’Brien; sister, Barbara Wilkins; and several nieces and nephews.
Henry is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Jodi Lynn O’Brien (2016); his parents; brother, James Berry; and brother-in-law, Edward Wilkins.
A Memorial Gathering for Henry will be held Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd.) Joliet, from 4:00 p.m. until a service of remembrance begins at 7:30 p.m.
As it was Henry’s wish cremation rites have been accorded.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name made to Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated.
For more information please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.
