Carol Faith Berry, age 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 14, 2023, in South Carolina after a long struggle with a debilitating illness. She is leaving behind her two daughters, Patricia and Donna, her three grandchildren Christopher, Olivia and Cloe and son in laws Kevin and Mark.
Born in Williamsburg Brooklyn, NY and raised by Peter and Lillian Mattisen with her younger brother Peter, predeceased in 1972. She graduated from Brooklyn HS in 1953 where she excelled in bookkeeping and accounting. After graduating from High School, she began her career at ACME Construction as a bookkeeper.
Carol met her husband John (predeceased), at a local dance and were soon married. They remained married for 49 years, until John’s passing. They resided in the Boulevard Gardens until 1969, when they bought their beautiful Story brook home in Nesconset, NY where they lived and raised Patricia and Donna. Some of her best friends for over 50 years, were her neighbors with whom she loved having gatherings, dinners, and playing card games.
Our mother was truly our best friend, so we are humbled by the challenge of describing the fullness of her beauty and caring. I don’t know how she did it, but she managed a demanding career at General Utilities, where she worked as a Sales Manager and Director for thirty years, where she excelled, while always prioritizing her family. Later, after retiring she worked with her daughter answering phones, conversing with clients, and counting money. That was her favorite part of the job, and she did it well!
You should know, our mom was filled with love and kindness which she infused into everything she did. She was a world class mother, girl scout leader, and an animated storyteller. Throughout her life she loved her animals. Our home had beautiful vegetable and flower gardens and blossoming cherry and apple trees. She loved to dance and sing and became friends with all our friends. Her love of history took her on wonderful trips throughout Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, and across the United States. Carol enjoyed beautiful vacations with her husband, daughters and grandchildren, family, and friends. Our family cruises to Caribbean islands just to name the few. Also, owning a home in Hilton Head, SC, she loved walks on the beach collecting shells and spending time with her grandkids. Carol will forever be remembered for her generosity as she always made our holidays, birthdays, and the Christmas season magical. The grandkids fondly remember her hiding money in the Christmas tree every year. Her love of shopping was a favorite past time. I guess you could say she could shop till she dropped, a trait she passed down to both daughters and grandchildren. She loved the theatre, musicals, and dining out which allowed her the opportunity to show off her great fashion sense. She loved to also take trips on the boat to Fire Island and vacations with her grandkids.
In her later years, she spent much time with her grandchildren, caring for them, making her the very best Grandma. She loved to do arts and crafts, baking, helping with homework. She was there for all, giving them comfort and advice when needed, and getting to know their friends as well. She attended baseball and football games with Christopher. She took her granddaughters to dance and cheerleading. At all events, she yelled their names and cheered them on showing her proud support and love for all of them. She was a big Disney fan introducing all the Disney movies and traveling to Disney World for vacations. She was a proud grandma who seized every opportunity to talk about her grandchildren to anyone that would listen.
As her illness progressed, she primarily resided with Patricia and her husband Kevin and their son Christopher, in Port Jefferson, N.Y. She would take lengthy vacations to Charleston, SC residing for periods of time with Donna and her husband Mark. In all places she made new friends and was loved. We also want to thank all her caregivers who became her friend. She loved you all.
Mommy, we will never forget the lessons and advice you taught all of us. Your wisdom and strength will forever guide us in our decisions we make throughout our lives. You are leaving a legacy of kindness and generosity which will never be forgotten.
Best Mother, Grandmother and Friend to all, you are forever in our hearts and your presence will be carried with us for the rest of our days when we will be reunited. We all love you so much Mommy, Rest in Peace.
Services will be held at a later date in NY to celebrate her life.
Cremation Services Direct of Myrtle Beach (843-651-1194) is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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