Dr. Berry

Dr. Stephen R. "Steve" Berry, age 70, died January 13, 2020 at the Life Care Center of Hickory Woods, Antioch TN of complications from chronic kidney disease due to Type 2 diabetes. Having lived most of his life in Columbia SC, Steve moved to the Nashville area in 2015 to be near his son Taylor.Born in Columbia SC on August 27, 1949, Steve was predeceased by his parents Dr. and Mrs. Louie and Sarah Ramseur Berry. Steve was a graduate of Dreher High School in Columbia and The University of South Carolina with a BS in Biological Sciences and a minor in Botany. His favorite course at USC was a botany class taught by Dr. Wade Batson. A walk in the woods with Steve was a lesson in local flora as he recalled the scientific names of many plants.Steve served in the United States Air Force and SC Air National Guard attaining the rank of Staff Sgt. Following his service and honorable discharge he attended the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston SC where he received a doctor of dental medicine (DMD) in 1976.He practiced dentistry in Columbia for over 20 years before a disability necessitated early retirement. He began his practice under the tutelage of his father Dr. Louie Berry, a Columbia dentist for over 50 years. Steve modeled his practice after his father giving individual attention to each patient and providing exacting treatment assuring that each procedure performed and crown or bridge made met his high standards. He was a member of the SC Dental Association and the Mid Carolina Study Academy of which he served a term as president.Steve had a passion for fishing. He especially loved to catch largemouth bass in South Carolina's rivers, lakes, and ponds. Also skilled in the kitchen, he served fried fish with grits and coleslaw to the delight of family and friends.A talented artist, Steve's paintings adorned the walls of his home. He continued painting for most of his life. Steve was also a skilled jewelry maker using his dental laboratory equipment to cast rings, earrings and pendants.Steve is survived by his son Taylor Lewis Berry of Murfreesboro Tennessee and his wife Carrie; brother Dr. Richard Barnett Berry of Gainesville, FL, his wife Kathy and their children David and Sarah; and by his former wife and friend Dianne Lewis of Asheville, NC.The family will celebrate Steve's life with a private service. Condolences may be shared with the family in care of Taylor Berry, 2829 Lightning Bug Dr, Murfreesboro TN 37129 or online through the Nashville Cremation CenterMemorial donations can be made to the South Carolina Wildlife Federation online at South Carolina Wildlife Federation . Or by mail at: South Carolina Wildlife Federation, 215 Pickens Street, Columbia, SC 29205.