After a life of love and quiet grace, Desiree Celinda Berry of Dover, DE has passed.
These words are offered in her memory — small, but heartfelt.
Desiree held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew her best.
Those who live by belief leave a different kind of mark.
Desiree Celinda Berry was born on October 11, 1958 in Dover, Delaware to her late parents Joseph S. Berry Sr. and Phyllis C. Miller Berry Scott. On Wednesday April 22, 2026 at the age of 67, she peacefully gained her wings with her family at her bedside.
Desiree received her education in the Caesar Rodney School District. She later earned her cosmetology license from Harris School of Business and began a career doing what she loved-beautifying her clients. Her passion for cosmetology continued throughout her life, as she often styled the hair of family and friends, offered hair care advice, and even developed her own hair butter recipe later in life. She also worked in food production, transportation services, and as security guard for Confidential Services. Another favorite pastime of Desiree's was cleaning, and she often offered to help family and friends keep their homes tidy.
Desiree, lovingly known as "Perch" by close family and friends-a name given to her by her late uncle, Donald Miller Sr., -was known for her thoughtful and generous spirit. She made it a tradition to give each child in the family a birthday card with money matching their age and Christmas cards with crisp two-dollar bills. She never missed an opportunity to call loved ones for birthdays, holidays, or simply to check in, often leaving messages that ended with "Love you, call me back."
She was a proud member of the Delaware Finest Van Club, where she was affectionately known as "Sparkles". When Desiree entered a room, her presence was immediately felt. With her hands in the air, she would joyfully shout "The party ain't start 'til I walked in," followed by her signature smile and laughter-letting everyone know it was time to celebrate. She was truly the life of the party.
Desiree was deeply devoted to her family and friends. She welcomed everyone into her home with warmth and often a hot meal. She cherished spending time with loved ones, whether talking on the phone or gathering together. Whenever she arrived at an event, she came bearing something-whether it was a homemade dish, a drink, a prize for games to be enjoyed or just her smile and laughter.
Desiree found peace in her Buddhist practice and held a heartfelt belief in God.
In addition to her parents, Desiree was preceded in death by her younger brother, Jarrell L. Berry and Edwin V. Berry.
She leaves to cherish her memory two sons Norman {Florena} Berry and Robert Puryear; two brothers Joseph S. Berry of Dover, DE and Walden "Greg" {Brenda} Berry of Dover, DE; two sisters Jacqueline Berry of Charlotte, NC and Jeraldine Berry of Dover, DE; two grandchildren Nakira Berry and Norman Berry Jr; and a host of Godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and friends far too numerous to list.
A funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Union Baptist Church, 883 Lincoln Street, Dover DE 19904 where there will be a viewing from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Saturday. Burial will follow in Sharon Hills Memorial Park, Dover. Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com.
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