BERRY, Ruth (Virginia)

The Verde Independent, Cottonwood, AZ April 09, 2006 Ruth "Virginia" Berry of Cottonwood died on Tuesday, April 4, 2006, on her 85th birthday. Virginia was born on April 4, 1921, in Jackson, Tenn., to William and Annie (Lewis) Wynns. Virginia loved music and she always listened to the Grand Ole' Opry, which helped found her love of music. Her favorite song was Baby Likes to Rock, which was sung by one of her favorite groups, The Tractor. In her younger years, she also experienced a "once-in-a-lifetime" event when she had the privilege of playing the guitar with Eddie Arnold in a back-up group. Virginia worked a variety of jobs throughout her life, including clerical and working in local schools. She also served as a Sunday school teacher. Virginia loved walking and being outdoors, and she especially loved to fly. She was talented in quilting and crocheting and she also enjoyed reading and loved playing games with her family. Virginia is preceded in death by her parents. She leaves behind daughters, Judy Lerette (Ted) of Cottonwood, Rose Kiley (Tom) of Chino Valley, and Betty Lawrence (Billy) of Nesbit, Miss.; sister Sue King of Martin, Tenn.; as well as 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. A celebration of her life will be held on Tuesday, April 11, at 10 a.m. at Westcott Funeral Home.