Jeffrey L. Berry
September 1953 - March 21, 2024
Jeffrey L Berry, 70, of Portsmouth passed away Thursday, March 21, 2024 at Southern Ohio Medical Center.
Jeff is survived by two children, William “Bill” Berry of Portsmouth and Bridgette Berry of Cincinnati, a brother, Jim (Linda) Berry, of Lancaster and the mother of his children, Mary Ellen Berry. He had numerous nieces and nephews who were proud of him and loved their “Uncle Jeff”. He also had many great friends through school, coaching, and officiating.
Jeff was a 1972 graduate of Portsmouth High School and a 1976 graduate of Ohio Northern University. While in college he was a member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. He also received his Master’s degree from Xavier University.
Jeff retired from Minford Local School District after 30 plus years as a teacher, Administrator, Athletic Director, and renowned coach. Jeff stayed active in education on a daily basis as a substitute teacher for many Scioto County Schools.
Coach Berry had an incredible nine year run as the head coach of the Minford Football Falcons. In 1985 they won their first SOC title and their first playoff appearance. Minford was the first Scioto County team to win 11 games in a season. His team also reached the state semifinals that season. When he retired from coaching, he was the winningest coach in Minford history.
His love of athletics led him to become a registered OHSAA official in football, softball, and baseball. As an official, he excelled. He was a state final football and softball official. He also cheered and supported his favorite college and NFL teams including the Reds, Bengals, Buckeyes, and the Kentucky Wildcats.
Visitation will be Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from 5pm to 8pm and prior to the service from 11am to noon at Melcher-Hammer Funeral Home. The funeral services are at noon on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 with Rev. John Gowdy officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital.