In Memory of

Hugh

C

"Buddy"

Berry

Jr.

Obituary for Hugh C "Buddy" Berry Jr.

Hugh Chester “Buddy” Berry Jr. was born July 21, 1928 in Houston, Texas to Cleo Emily and Hugh C. Berry Sr. Hugh returned to his Heavenly Father’s home on June 11, 2020.

Hugh was the middle of three children, living in and around the Houston area. The family moved around quite a bit during his childhood; from Houston to Victoria, to Texarkana and several stops in between. After graduating high school in Texarkana, Hugh joined the Navy and served as a Physician Assistant. Although he was recommended for re-enlistment, he decided to seek his destiny elsewhere. He returned to La Porte, TX and started a career with Shell Oil. Hugh worked for Shell his entire career, retiring after forty plus years.

Hugh was very friendly and a devoted member of several organizations. He was a strong supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project. He was a proud Shriner and a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. Hugh was originally a member of the Pasadena #1155, initiated in July of 1978 and achieved Master Mason in 1979. He moved to Gray Lodge #329 in 1986 and became an endowed member in January of 1994. On May 19, 1979 Hugh became an endowed member of Scottish Rite.

Hugh was so proud of all the events he participated in with the Shriners. He was a regular supporter at the monthly meetings. Hugh was quite dapper in his tuxedo and enjoyed the formal dances with his wife, Rosemary, at the Shriner Center on Braeswood. He was especially proud to be a member of the Oriental Band. Although his father was a musician, Hugh’s skills with the Chinese Musette made him a perfect candidate as a Conductor. He thoroughly enjoyed travelling with the band, especially to Brownsville for Charro Days. Hugh served as the President of the Oriental Band in 2012. At the time of his passing Hugh had been a Mason for over 41 years!

Hugh was a 20+ year member of the Memorial Drive United Methodist Church. He was an active participant of the Bridge Builders and particularly enjoyed the senior activities and lunches at MDUMD.
When Hugh moved to The Abby at Westminster Plaza, he settled in to “retirement life”. One of Hugh’s many talents was painting. He had several beautiful works of art from years past and was encouraged to showcase all of them at the last Art Show at The Abby. Hugh made several new friends and thoroughly enjoyed his life there.

Hugh is preceded by his parents, Cleo and Hugh Sr.; his brother, William V. Berry and sister, Peggy Cox. He is survived by extended families at The Abby, Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, The Shriners, Gray Lodge #329, and many friends that will miss him dearly.

People who speak of him admired his calm assurance, his kindness to all. Although he considered himself a simple, hardworking man, he was an inspiration and role model to those who cherish him.
Hugh was a true gentleman; as good a man as you could ever meet. Our world has lost a star who now resides in heaven