Johnny L. Berryhill, Sr.

Obituary For Johnny L. Berryhill, Sr.

Johnny Lee Berryhill, Sr., 76 of Memphis, Tennessee passed away on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Johnny Lee Berryhill, Sr. was born on November 19, 1946, to Chester Lee Berryhill, Sr., and Janie Lee Woodard Berryhill, both of whom preceded him in death. He was the first son born to the young married couple and joined his older sister to make a loving family. Johnny was named after his maternal grandfather.

Johnny attended Wisconsin elementary, George Washington Carver high school, and the University of Memphis. He gave 21 years of his life to the United States Army where he served in many places, including Viet Nam, Germany, and the Philippines. He served as an Army recruiter for several years, and enrolled numerous young men and women into the military. Johnny served with honor and dignity.

Johnny also served as the ROTC instructor at Southside High School for many years only retiring when the school was closed in 2008. It was at Southside that he was lovingly and respectfully called “Sarge”. Many of his students would often keep in touch with him and share fond memories. Johnny was an excellent teacher and role model.

Johnny served as a Memphis Police officer for a short period of time. He would often be seen serving at the many public events around the city. Always serving, always smiling, and always friendly to everyone he encountered. Johnny spent many years of his life serving and protecting others, whether his country, or the city of Memphis. He was a true and faithful public servant.

Johnny acknowledged his call to the ministry while attending New Olivet Baptist Church. He was licensed and ordained while under the leadership of Rev. Kenneth Whalum, Jr. New Olivet released him to serve several years as youth minister at New Philadelphia Baptist Church where he served with distinction. The youth ministry prospered under his leadership and guidance. Johnny was well known and loved at this assignment. After fulfilling his assignment, he returned to New Olivet and continued in ministry. Johnny continued to preach and teach at both churches. He then later joined the Oak Grove M. B. Church.

Johnny leaves to mourn and celebrate his journey two sons, Chris and Johnny, Jr., three brothers, Chester, Rickie (Sharlene), and Anthony (Toni), two sisters, Linda Fryer (Dwight), and Carolyn Benson. Two sisters preceded him in death, Gloria Rochon, and Betty Berryhill. He also leaves to mourn his passing several grandchildren: Alesha Martin (Robert), Lynae, Malia, Jaylynn, Jaeden, and Johnny lll; great grandchildren: Amiya, Robert, and Travis, along with a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

The family will receive friends Friday, September 1, 2023 from 9:00am-10:55am with a funeral service to follow at 11:00am both will be held at The Historic Oak Grove Baptist Church 7289 Stage Rd, Memphis, TN 38133

Interment will be in West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 4000 Forest Hill Irene Rd, Memphis, TN 38125