James L. Berry

The man we said had 10 lives, James Louis Berry, following a 10 year battle with multiple conditions ran out of them, but not without putting up a good fight! A loving man of wit and charm, died Wednesday, October 11th with his loving family at his side. 

James and Jerri enjoyed a marital journey spanning 35 years, she was the love of his life, and they enjoyed many fun times together. In addition to his beloved Jerri, James’s legacy will be carried on by his children Sommer Salgaonkar (Benjamin Briscoe) and Zachary Berry. He also cherished his grandchildren, whom he spoiled rotten on a regular basis, Jaya Salgaonkar, Ajay Salgaonkar, Alyssa Berry, Kaylee Berry and step grandchildren John and Ava Briscoe. Family was everything to him and he held a close bond with his brothers and always told many stories of them together. Ernie Berry (Nita Berry) and Gary Berry (Robin Berry) and many nieces and nephews that he loved and cherished as well.

James grew up in North Little Rock, child of Theresa and Ernest Berry and greatly enjoyed the doting of his aunts and uncles. He had a love of baseball as a child and was very good at it. He was also good at getting into mischief with his brothers and there are many stories of him having to pick out a branch from the tree for a good swatting. He then attended North Little Rock High School from where he graduated and met many lifelong friends.

James was a business' man; he first owned a battery shop in North Little Rock. After that he owned multiple gas stations in the central Little Rock area. After selling the gas stations he then began selling to gas stations with novelty items, candy and such until his health became too bad and he had to quit.

James had a love for horse racing, fishing, hunting, and watching the Razorbacks play. He loved to be with people and just have a good time. He was the life of the party, had an infectious laugh and amazing smile. He always made you feel welcome and at home. He never turned anyone away that needed help of any kind, he was a loyal friend, a loving person and to know him was to love him.