Celebrating the life of
Ronald C. Berry
November 16, 1957 - May 24, 2026
Ronald “Ron” Clarkson Berry passed peacefully on the morning of Sunday May 24th, 2026, in the loving presence of his family and the gentle care of Hospice Savannah. Ron was born on November 16, 1957, at the old Telfair Hospital in Savannah, Georgia, to Jean Clarkson Berry and Albert Hughes Berry Jr. He grew up in Savannah alongside his older brother, Albert Hughes Berry III, who preceded him in death. Ron attended Savannah Country Day School before continuing his education at University of Georgia, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity, and later the University of Georgia School of Law. Following law school, Ron returned home to Savannah and began practicing law in 1983 with The Adams Firm. He later established his own practice specializing in commercial litigation, serving the community with integrity until his retirement.
Throughout his life, Savannah was the center of Ron’s world. Ron held memberships at The Savannah Golf Club, The Chatham Club, and The Landings Clubs, but his favorite was always The Savannah Yacht Club. One of Ron’s greatest passions was life on the water. As a boy he spent countless hours in and around Isle of Hope, boating and exploring the waterways with his lifelong friends Frank Kehoe and Hobbie Manley. He treasured time sailing with his father, friends, and brother Hugh. Ron taught sailing for many years at the Savannah Yacht Club and remained deeply involved in ocean racing throughout much of his young adult life, competing on both large and small vessels. Among his favorite memories was winning the SORC sailing race in the Bahamas alongside Raymond Demere, Gary Oetgen, Howard Reeve, and a talented crew from Annapolis in 1988. Ron also spent many joyous, fun-filled weekends on the water with his wife, Caroline, and their two sons, Ron Jr. and Heyward. A typical Saturday for the Berry family was climbing aboard the boat and heading to Wassaw Island which became part of so many cherished family memories.
Ron was also deeply committed to his faith and service to others. For many years, he led the Good News Jail Ministry, faithfully spending lunch hours and Sunday mornings teaching and encouraging men at the local jail. His faith remained a guiding force throughout his life. Ron and Caroline devoted themselves to their family, their church, and the life they built together in Historic Savannah. They attended St. John's Church and shared more than 35 years enjoying the beauty of the Savannah Historic District and time spent on the water.
Ron is survived by his wife, Caroline Wansley Berry; his sons, Ronald Clarkson Berry Jr. and his wife, Eva Edwards Berry, and Heyward Wansley Berry and his wife, Izzy Sandoval Berry; and his granddaughter, June Caroline Berry.
We would like to thank the attending nurses and doctors at St. Joseph’s and Candler hospitals as well as Hospice Savannah for their kindness and exceptional care.
A funeral service celebrating the life of Ron Berry will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church, 325 Bull Street, Savannah, Georgia, on Saturday May 30, 2026, at 11:00am. A reception at the Green-Meldrim House will follow as family and friends gather to honor a life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ron’s memory to St. John's Episcopal Church or St. Joseph's/Candler Foundations.
Ron was a blessing in my life while I was growing up he helped achieve my dreams he will be sadly missed by all,but know Ron is looking over us in that water, especially Wassaw Sound,Rest in peace Ron,I am sorry for your loss Caroline and family,Ron did a lot for our community.
- Bradley J Poole, Kingsland, GA
Ronnie always made me think. Sure enjoyed that about him. Will miss him and know that you will too. Grief seems to come in waves, receding and then coming again at full force. Best to you all in riding this through. I know it was unexpected. Ronnie would be proud of all of you.
- Gene Brooks, Savannah, GA
Our deepest sympathies to you, Caroline, and your family. Jeanne & Guerry
- Jeanne Conrade, Savannah, GA
So sorry for this terrible loss. Sending love, comfort and prayers to Caroline and her family.
- Angela Sauers, Savannah, GA
Caroline, I was so sorry to read of your husband's passing. I was unaware he was ill. May God's peace sustain you through this time of sadness. God Bless.
- Carol Ray, Savannah, GA
Caroline, dear, I am so very sorry to learn this news. Please know that I will be thinking of you and the boys with much love.
- Stacy Jennings, Savannah, Georgia
Ron was such an amazing neighbor and friend. I will never forget him praying for my recovery after a major surgery. His obituary is a true testament to how he lived his life. Caroline, Ron & Heyward, I am so sorry for your loss.
- Richard Sturgess, Savannah , GA
Very sorry to hear about Ron. I remember Ron as an instructor at the Savannah Yacht Club camps and enjoyed being around him. He always had a story to tell. He always had clean, meticulous desk at his law office. He will be missed. Prayers for Carolina and the family.
- Dee Pinckney , Savannah , Georgia
Caroline, I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss. I will be praying for Gods peace for you and your boys.
- Kathy King, Savannah, GA
I have many fond memories growing up with Ron and Hugh sailing at the Yacht Club. It was a wonderful place and time. Please know that your family is in my prayers.
- Mark Smith , Savannah , Georgia
My condolences to the family. Ron (Ronnie) introduced me to sailing and boating at the Yacht Club's summer camp. May his spirit bring peace.
- Emily Daniell Magruder, Los Angeles, CA
I am deeply sorry that your family has lost this wonderful husband, father and grandfather. What a lovely obituary you wrote to capture his spirit! Martha Nesbit
- Martha Nesbit, Savannah, GA
Dear Caroline, Affectionate and deep sympathy
- Mimi Cay, Savannah, GA
Caroline, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Sending love and strength x
- Theresa Atkins, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Memorial Service
- 11:00 am on Sat, May 30, 2026
- St. John's Church
-
325 Bull Street (map)
Savannah Georgia 31401
- Reception
- on Sat, May 30, 2026
- Green Meldrim House
-
(map)
