Mattie Odessa Berry was born in Sardis, Mississippi, on January 6, 1925, to Dewitt L. Smith and Hattie (Moore) Smith. She was the sixth of seven children: Ruth, Callie, Moory, Stewart, George, and Lillian preceded her in death.

Mattie was an exceptional wife and mother. On December 26, 1950, Mattie was united in holy matrimony to Mandeville Berry, Sr. They were married 56 years and raised four children: Carolyn, Mandeville, Jr., Sharon, and Janice. The couple spent their lives raising their children, traveling, and enjoying their grandchildren together until Mandeville, Sr. died in 2007.

Mattie cared deeply for her family, friends, and neighbors. She was kind and compassionate, which she regularly demonstrated by driving neighbors to appointments, carrying meals to a sick friend, or taking a group of neighborhood children on outings. She often played board games with family, read to and with her children, and baked for school bake sales.

During Mattie's life, she always displayed an outgoing and positive personality that made others feel comfortable and welcomed. Mattie loved music, enjoyed fashion, and was a stylish dresser. She was an avid gardener and an exceptional and creative cook.

On April 3, 2023, at the Center for Health and Rehabilitation at Burcham Hills in East Lansing, Mattie went to be with the Lord. The family thanks everyone at Burcham Hills for all their care and kindness.

Mattie leaves to cherish her memory four children: Carolyn Berry, Mandeville Berry, Jr. (wife-Judith), Sharon Vivian (husband-Leroy), and Janice Berry. Four grandchildren: Ebony Schumake (husband-Brandon), Mandeville Berry III, Shannon Vivian, and Maxwell Vivian. Nieces and nephews: Shirley McKinstry (husband-Bob), Neverson Jones (wife-Carol), and Michael Smith. Cousin: Denise Woods and a host of relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family prefers donations be made in honor of Mattie Berry to The Turning Point of Lansing at https://www. theturningpointoflansing.org or to Big Brothers Big Sisters Michigan Capital Region at https://www.bbbsmcr.org.

Arrangements for Mrs. Berry are as follows: