Joy M. Berry

Oct. 8, 1932 - Jan. 18, 2017

Joy Berry left us on January 18, 2017 due to renal failure. She suffered many years with polycystic kidney disease. Raised in Atlantic City she pursued a life among the artistic avant-garde in Europe and the United States. She lived with the renowned sculptor Harry Jackson in Rome. She also worked as an actor and voice over artist in New York before she came to the Bay Area in the 1970s. She lived in Marin County and then in San Francisco where her work included administration of the film department at San Francisco City College and real estate sales.

Joy suffered from disabling visual problems throughout her life, but this did not keep her from actively engaging in, supporting, and enjoying the arts in all their forms. She regularly attended the SF Opera. She kept up with the museum and theater scenes in the Bay Area. She brought great pleasure to her friends with her classical guitar repertoire. She became an avid potter for many years at the Sharon Art Studio in Golden Gate Park.

With her vivid personality, Joy made many devoted friends in varied circles. This included her neighborhood where she lived for over forty years and walked a series of beloved dogs.

Joy leaves behind her last beloved dog, Bella as well as a brother, Norman Berry, his wife and their children.

Please direct gifts in her memory to the San Francisco SPCA.