Emmadean Berry – respected realtor and civic leader dies
Emmadean Berry, a realtor and Chamber of Commerce supporter, died at age 93.
Mrs. Berry moved to Grand Prairie in 1942 when her husband, Wilbur Berry, accepted a job in the aircraft industry. She launched her successful real estate business in 1960 and served in professional organizations at the local, state and national level. She was active in the Grand Prairie Board of Realtors and served as the board president in 1970. Named the board’s Realtor of the Year in 1970 and 1989, she was also the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award of the Texas Association of Realtors.
A founder, the first female manger and lifetime member of Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce, Mrs. Berry has received the chamber’s Member of the Year and Pacesetter Awards.
The civic-minded Mrs. Berry was instrumental in founding the Soroptimist of Grand Prairie, the Grand Prairie Woman’s Club and Grand Prairie United Charities. She served as president of the:
Federation of Women’s Clubs
Toastmistress Club
Business and Professional Women’s Club
PTA
She was on the City of Grand Prairie Planning and Zoning Committee, and the Water and Planning Commission.
Lynn McGinley, President Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce said, “Though I met Emmadean well after her time of serving as the Chamber Secretary, it struck me that the years never diminished her support of the chamber. Each time I saw her, I would take a minute to consider how all great organizations are built on the backs of people who were committed to something larger than themselves. We are so fortunate to have had such a dedicated individual in our midst. Her sweet smile never failed to bring a smile of my own. She will be missed.”
Visitation for Mrs. Berry will be from 2-4 p.m. February 21 at Bean-Massey-Burge, 733 Dalworth. Services will be February 22 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 122 NE 2nd.
