Michael Gerard Berry, 69, passed peacefully on October 21, 2026 after a long, courageous, and graceful journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Though the disease took so much from him, it never touched his gratitude, kindness, or his desire to help others. In the days leading up to his passing, he was surrounded by the unconditional love and warmth of his wife, Nora, and their three children, Christina, Joseph, and Laura.

Born on March 20, 1957, in St. Charles, Missouri, Michael devoted his life to his family, his faith, and his creativity, which he expressed through both his career and personal pursuits. A faithful Catholic and passionate hockey fan, he found joy in bringing happiness to others, whether through a kind comment, a joke, his artwork, or a helping hand.

Michael grew up in St. Ann, Missouri, where he was an avid Boy Scout and went on to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. After graduating from St. Louis University High School and Kansas State University, he moved to Texas, where he met the love of his life, Nora, with whom he shared 44 wonderful years of marriage. He built a long and successful career in media, including more than two decades at NBC in Dallas, Texas.

Outside of work and family, Michael was always drawing, sculpting, and creating. His notable projects include serving as an original animator for the children’s show “Barney & Friends,” the animated film “The Legend of the Christmas Flower,” which earned five Emmy nominations, and the Dove Award-winning children’s book series “Seek and Find” and “Angel Babies.”

Michael was a dedicated, hands-on father to his three beautiful children, and he later cherished his role as “Grandpa” to his two grandsons. He was always his children’s and grandchildren’s biggest fan, amazed by their accomplishments and proud of every milestone, big or small.

His kindness and selfless spirit will live on through his wife, Nora Elizondo Berry; his daughter, Christina Dost, and her husband, Matthew; his son, Joseph Berry, and his wife, Heidi; his daughter, Laura Berry; his grandchildren, Bennett and Cullen Berry; his brother, Thomas Berry Jr., and his wife, Jacqueline; his brother, Patrick Berry, and his wife, Marjorie; his brother, James Berry, and his wife, Janis; his brother, Kevin Berry, and his wife, Diane; his sister, Nancy Vallentine, and her husband, Robert; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Michael is now reunited with his loving parents, Geraldine and Thomas Berry Sr., his brother Robert Berry, his nephew, Matthew Berry, and many other beloved relatives and friends.

Those who knew Michael will remember that he rarely stayed still, always looking for ways to brighten the lives of those around him. He will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Michael. We hope that continued research will one day ensure no family has to experience this kind of loss. Donations can be made through his tribute page:

https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/josephberry/in-loving-memory-of-michael-g–berry