Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

January 17, 2022

CHARLOTTE – Michael John Berry passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022.  He was born to Claudia Mae Gaines and Ernest T. Berry on November 8, 1953.

Son, Brother, Uncle, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Mentor, Counselor, Veteran, Activist, Hero… just a few titles Michael John Berry has accrued over a long and beautiful life.  Always a servant and protector to his community, Michael earned a Brown Belt in the traditional style of Seido Karate.  He joined the United States Army in April of 1974 where he served honorably in Iran.  

While residing in the Bronx, NY he was an active member of Calvary Unity Methodist.  In Charlotte, NC he was proud to call Greater Bethel AME his church home.  A champion for Mental Health Awareness, Michael would counsel anyone who would listen in order to affect positive change in the community.   

Michael was a huge food enthusiast and would only be sated if he knew no one around him would feel hunger. 

As an avid bibliophile Michael had a large book collection and was rarely seen without a book in his hand. Michael would gift books to anyone would accept them. Education and betterment of oneself was always uppermost in his mind.  He was a fan of the fine arts and would frequent museums, musicals, orchestras, and African dance recitals.

Although Michael is gone, he will not be forgotten.  He wouldn’t want us to be sad, as he would say "today is the day the lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it." We honor Michael today, not with sadness, but with the jovial energy that Michael was known for.

Michael is survived and will be missed by his son, Drexel Berry and his wife, Natisha; his strong father, Ernest Berry; his adoring grandchildren, Link, Levi, London and Halo and his loving sisters, Ernestine, Pamela, Genette, and Clainda.  He is also survived by his proud nephews, Norman and Miles and his caring ex-wife, Valerie Berry.

Services for Michael will be private. 

May God rest his soul. 

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.