Deacon Berry Smith

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Deacon Berry’s life was a tapestry woven with devotion to family, steadfast faith, and a warmth that touched all who were fortunate to know him.

With deep love and cherished memories, the family and friends of Deacon Berry Smith announce his passing on August 1, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on May 29, 1939, Deacon Berry’s life was a tapestry woven with devotion to family, steadfast faith, and a warmth that touched all who were fortunate to know him.

Deacon Berry was a man whose gentle spirit was evident in the way he carried himself and in the lives he touched every day. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary Smith, with whom he built a loving home that nurtured, uplifted, and sustained their family through the years. The lessons of strength, compassion, and integrity that flourished in their household became the roots of a legacy that now blesses each new generation.

His memory lives on in his devoted children: Christine Brown and Brenda Anderson, loving daughters; Aqunita Hills, who shared a special bond; Doyna bell, a cherished son; and James Chance, a beloved son. Grandchildren were one of Deacon Berry’s great joys, and they remember him as a pillar of strength and a source of laughter: Latasha Loyd, Lawrence Beard, Darius Beard, Charles Anderson II, Fashounmagetta Anderson, Dexter Anderson, Tavarius bell, Latoya Cottrell, Shekelia Bell, Brianna Lacey, Faith Hills, Royal Hills, Donya bell, and Donya Demond Bell. Their hearts overflow with stories of his wisdom and gentle guidance, his proud encouragement at every accomplishment, and his soothing words during moments of uncertainty.

Deacon Berry is also fondly remembered by his extended family: three treasured sisters—Margarette Bell, Mary Ann Wright, and Diane Smith; his dear brother David Smith; nieces Earnestine Gray and Patricia Oaks, whose relationship with their uncle enriched their lives; along with Rebbie Ryans and Daviana Jones, other family members whose connections brought comfort and joy. Alice Morris, a special friend, stood by Deacon Berry through seasons of joy and sorrow, exemplifying the true meaning of companionship.

Today, his family finds peace in knowing Deacon Berry has been reunited with his beloved wife Mary and his parents, Robert Lee Smith and Annie Bell Smith. Their memories, too, are held close in every moment of remembrance.

To honor Deacon Berry Smith’s remarkable life, a series of services will be held. A Viewing is scheduled for Friday, August 7, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm at C.A. Reid Sr. Memorial Funeral Home, 314-A Laney Walker Blvd Ext., Augusta, GA 30901. The Funeral Service will follow on Saturday, August 8 at 2:30 pm at Doyal Grove Baptist Church, Blythe Rd, Hephzibah, GA 30815, with Interment to take place at the same location at 3:45 pm.

While words can scarcely contain the fullness of Deacon Berry’s life—his unconditional love, his boundless patience, and his unwavering faith—they offer but a glimpse into the legacy he leaves behind. As his family gathers to mourn and remember, there is comfort in knowing that Deacon Berry Smith’s spirit endures in every act of kindness, every shared story, and every blessed memory.

He will be deeply missed but forever honored—by his family, his friends, and by all who were graced by his gentle heart.