Catherine Ophelia Berry, 89 of Dorchester, South Carolina passed away peacefully, Monday November 5, 2018 at the home of her sister, Redella McCants in Mascoutah, Illinois.  Born the 6 ^th child of 11 to Artis and Rachel Butler Berry, both preceding her in death, Catherine was born New Year's Day January 1, 1929.  She accepted Christ at an early age in Dorchester, as she and all her siblings grew up in church.

She graduated from Williams Memorial High School in St George, South Carolina.  Never marrying, she worked for Paragon in Summerville, South Carolina for many years.  She was known for her quick wit and work ethic.  Catherine had a passion for baking and two of her specialties were Jelly Cakes and her famous $15/pan biscuits.

Catherine was preceded in death by 7 of her siblings, one of which was Virginia Gardner.  After her passing, Catherine raised Virginia's 3 children.  She also raised one special nephew, Ricky Berry of Jamaica, NY.  She also adopted her great-nephew Craig at 6 months old (Virginia's grandson) and raised him as her own.  She was loved by all of them.

She was a faithful  member of Greater St. Paul AME Church where she served diligently as Finance Secretary, served on the Pulpit Committee, Usher Board, Mass Choir, Missionary and Stewardess Board.  There are countless awards and plaques with her name over the years.  She was frequently the Top Fundraiser and captain!  She served until her health warranted her not to.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Craig (Katina) Gardner-Berry of Summerville, SC; sisters, Redella (John) McCants of Mascoutah, IL, Rachel S. Cooper of Gary, IN and Mary E. Berry of Dorchester, SC; sister-in-law, Sally Berry of Greenwood, SC; niece, Deborah (Jerry) Johnson of Appling, GA; nephews, Dennis (Jocelyn) Gardner of Spring Hill, TN and Herman (Tina) Gardner of Genoa City, WI; grandchildren, Otasia Berry, Craitaija McFadden, Nadia Berry, Breon, Quetin and Khyla Grant; one great grand, Lauren Pearson; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, family and friends.