William Martin Berry

William “Bill” Martin Berry, 91

With profound sadness—and with deep gratitude for a life so well lived—we announce the passing of William “Bill” Martin Berry, age 91, of New Carlisle. Bill passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 23rd, 2025, with his family by his side, only hours after his beloved wife, Delores. In life, they walked side by side, devoted partners for 70 years; in passing, they remained just as inseparable. Born on October 12th, 1934, in Springfield, Ohio, to the late James and Vera Berry. Bill was preceded in death by his son, Todd Berry, and by siblings Thomas (Odette) Berry, Lois (Johnny) Powell, and James (Paula) Berry, and sister-in-law Dorothy Berry. Bill is survived by his daughters, Brenda (Michael) Fettinger and Pamela (Guy) West. He also leaves behind his treasured grandchildren, Zebulen McNabb, Morgan McNabb, and Lauren Fettinger, along with his great-granddaughter, Vera Dee Frances McNabb, who filled his last two years with an incredible amount of joy. He leaves behind siblings, Donald Berry, Nancy Farish, Martha & Darrell Strome, and several cherished nieces and nephews. 

Bill lived a life anchored in service, learning, and community. He graduated from Tecumseh High in 1952 and then graduated from Wittenberg College, where he studied music. His career in education began at Bethel Local Schools, where he built their music program as a band & choral director, music teacher, then guidance counselor, and principal. He later served at Tecumseh Local Schools as assistant superintendent, a role in which he influenced and uplifted countless students and teachers. Even after retirement, Bill continued shaping future educators as a student teacher advisor through Wright State University—proof that his passion for education never dimmed. Bill’s dedication extended far beyond the classroom. 

He and Dee were longtime, faithful members of the New Carlisle Church of the Brethren, where they spent much of their adult lives contributing to the life of the congregation. Bill was a proud member and huge presence at New Carlisle Lodge #100 F&AM, past served as the Grand High Priest of the State of Ohio, and a 33rd degree Mason. He was also president and a member of the board at the Ohio Masonic Home, sharing his time and leadership with humility and heart. A tireless advocate for the arts and local history, Bill founded and directed the New Carlisle Community Chorus, participated in the Sertoma Society, the Heritage of Flight Festival Committee, and championed numerous community causes—including helping bring the arts to Smith Park through a summer concert series put on for many years with the New Carlisle Chatautauqua Arts Council. A true historian of his hometown, Bill even authored multiple books on New Carlisle, including a New Carlisle history, the history of schools in Clark County, as well as many newspaper articles. In addition, he worked for many years on the genealogy and wrote a book on The Berry Family History. To many, he wasn’t just part of the community—he was the community. It was no surprise that people fondly knew him as “Mr. New Carlisle” and received “the key to the city.” Much of Bill’s lifework and passion was towards preserving New Carlisle and Clark County heritage, wherein he was involved in many projects such as fundraising to preserve the old Olive Branch Building, the Advance One Room School No. 7, and several others. 

Bill’s love of adventure took him across the United States and the world, with travels throughout Europe, Israel, Russia, and beyond. Closer to home, he cherished his family vacations, carefully weaving joy and tradition into summers with his wife, children, and grandchildren. To his family, Bill was a steady presence—wise, passionate, encouraging, and unwavering. He was the best father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle they could have asked for, the rock upon which generations felt supported and loved. 

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation for both Bill and Dee at Trostel, Chapman, Dunbar & Fraley Funeral Home in New Carlisle, OH, on Monday, December 1st, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A joint graveside service will be held at the New Carlisle Cemetery on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, at 10:00 am. Arrangements have been entrusted to Trostel, Chapman, Dunbar & Fraley Funeral Home. Celebration of Life to come in Spring 2026. William “Bill” Martin Berry leaves behind a legacy of leadership, laughter, love, and lifelong service—one that will continue to echo in the community he helped shape and in the hearts of all who knew him.