September 28, 1932 – June 28, 2025
Richard Marvin “Dick” Berry, beloved father, grandfather, husband, and community member, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at the age of 92.
Richard, the only son of Benjamin Marvin Berry and Melissa Augusta Smith, was born on September 28, 1932, in Berkeley, California, where he later attended Berkeley High School. Summers were a treasured time for him, spent in Scott Valley and Forks of the Salmon with his Smith family—moving cattle, hunting, fishing, and mining. These experiences helped shape his lifelong love for Scott Valley, the outdoors, while deepening his connection to nature and family.
After graduating from high school, Richard attended Oregon State University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture. He entered the U.S. Army in 1955. It was while he was stationed at Fort Belvoir, VA, that he met his first love, Mary MacGregor, at a dance. The two were married and later settled in Fort Jones. There, Richard began working for Scott Valley Insurance, a business he would go on to own and operate for many years. Together, he and Mary raised four children—Patty, Donnie, Linda, and Barb. He continued to build and manage the agency with care and commitment until retiring in 1998.
Richard’s commitment to his community extended beyond his business. He could often be found at the athletic events of his children, volunteering his time and supporting in any way he could. He was a member of the Fort Jones Fire Department, North Star Lodge No. 91 Freemasons (Fort Jones), Order of the Eastern Star of California-10 (Etna), and took part in numerous community events. He served on several boards over the years, including the Fort Jones Cemetery District and Scott Valley Pleasure Park. His service and generosity left a lasting impact on the lives of many.
After Mary’s passing in 1991, Richard found love again when he met Barbara Jane Johnson. They were married in 2003 and enjoyed over two decades of marriage. Together, they worked side by side on the ranch in Quartz Valley, a place that became a true labor of love. Dick and Barbara also cherished time spent at their summer cabin and the Sumdaz Mining claim on the North Fork of the Salmon River, where they enjoyed fishing, mining, and caring for the property with their children and grandchildren. Dick was always on the move; he never sat still for long. He found great joy in working with his hands, planning and completing a project, and being out on the land he loved.
Richard was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary; his son, Donnie; and his son-in-law, Scott. He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; daughters Patty (Steve), Linda (Bill), and Barb; as well as his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends, including Barbara’s children and grandchildren.
Those who knew Dick will remember him for his friendliness, his humor, his love for the outdoors and a good hunting story, and above all, his devotion to family and community. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and deep-rooted love. He will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Fort Jones Cemetery, 1000 Cemetery Rd., Fort Jones. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Scott Valley Scholarship and Educational Awards, the Fort Jones Fire Department, or a charity of your choice.
sourced- Girdner Funeral Chapel
