Joshua Berry Obituary, Cause of Death – Beloved Husband, Father, and State Champion Remembered at 25
Joshua Cole Berry, 25, of West Portsmouth, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, accomplished athlete, and hardworking entrepreneur, Josh leaves behind a legacy shaped by his faith, dedication to family, and genuine care for others.
According to his obituary, Josh went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His passing leaves a profound loss for his family, friends, and the community that watched him grow from a promising young student into a devoted family man and successful business owner.
Early Life and Education
Joshua was born on January 3, 2001, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to Tom and Amy Murray Berry. He grew up in the area and graduated from Portsmouth West High School in 2019, earning the distinction of salutatorian of his graduating class.
Alongside his academic achievements, Josh distinguished himself as a gifted athlete. He became a state champion powerlifter, demonstrating the strength, discipline, and determination that would become defining qualities throughout his life.
Despite his accomplishments, Josh remained humble and grounded. His obituary describes a man who never allowed his achievements to overshadow his character, earning the respect of those who knew him through his work ethic and down-to-earth nature.
A Young Entrepreneur With a Strong Work Ethic
Josh's determination was evident from an early age. At just 14, he started Berry Lawncare, developing the business into a successful enterprise through years of hard work and commitment.
Building a business as a teenager reflected his initiative and willingness to take responsibility. His dedication continued into adulthood, as he worked to provide for his family and create a stable future for the people he loved.
Those who remember Josh will carry forward the example of someone who pursued his goals with determination while remaining focused on what mattered most to him.
A Devoted Husband and Loving Father
Above his academic, athletic, and professional accomplishments, Josh treasured his family. He was a devoted husband to his high school sweetheart, Cassie Rose Schaefer Berry, and a loving father to their son, Lane Joseph Berry.
His obituary describes the pride he took in the life he was building with Cassie and Lane. Providing for his family and being present for those he loved were central to his identity.
Josh's commitment to his family reflected the values that guided his life. His passing leaves his wife, young son, parents, siblings, and extended family to cherish the memories they shared and the love he gave them.
Faith Was at the Center of His Life
Josh's Christian faith was a defining part of who he was. According to his obituary, his relationship with Jesus Christ served as the foundation of his life, and he was passionate about sharing the love and hope he found through his faith.
He wanted others to experience that same sense of hope and salvation. His obituary describes his faith as unwavering and his heart as genuine, emphasizing the lasting influence he had on people through his beliefs and actions.
For those who shared his faith, his life and passing carry a deeply personal spiritual meaning. The love, encouragement, and faith he shared with others remain an important part of his legacy.
Family Members Who Survive Him
Josh was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, John Dale Berry and Janet Berry.
He is survived by his parents, Tom and Amy Murray Berry; his wife, Cassie Rose Schaefer Berry; and their son, Lane Joseph Berry.
His surviving family also includes his brothers, John Berry and his wife, Lynlee, and Jody Berry; his sister, Tomi Berry and Trace Pistole; his nieces, Remi and Colbie Berry; and his grandparents, Bruce and Donna Malone and Danny and Brenda Murray. His mother-in-law and father-in-law, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and other loved ones, also survive him.
His family remains at the heart of the memories and tributes honoring his life.
Joshua Cole Berry Cause of Death
The obituary provided by the family does not specify Joshua Berry's cause of death. No further details about the circumstances of his passing were included in the information provided, so a specific cause should not be assumed.
Funeral and Visitation Arrangements
A Mass of Christian Burial for Joshua Cole Berry is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Ohio. Father Smith will officiate, and interment will follow at McKendree Cemetery.
Visitation is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth.
The family has invited those attending to come as they are and dress comfortably, emphasizing that formal attire is not necessary. Their message reflects a desire for people to gather in love and remembrance rather than worry about appearances.
Additional obituary information is available through the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home website.
A Lasting Legacy of Faith, Family, and Determination
Joshua Cole Berry's life brought together academic achievement, athletic success, entrepreneurial ambition, and deep devotion to his family and faith. Though he died at just 25, his obituary emphasizes the lasting influence of the love and encouragement he shared with others.
He will be remembered as a humble man who worked hard, cherished his wife and son, and sought to share his Christian faith with those around him.
Heartfelt condolences go out to Cassie, Lane, his parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and everyone mourning his passing. May they find comfort in their memories of Josh and strength in the faith and love that meant so much to him.