Charles Elisha Berch, age 84, set sail from this shore January 8, 2015, at the Veteran’s Home in Collins where he had been a resident for four months. Saulters Moore Funeral Home in Prentiss was in charge of all arrangements.

Charles was born to Elisha and Sarah Elizabeth (Morrow) Berch of Gallman. He joined the US Navy at age 17. After training in Virginia and California he was assigned to the USS Juneau as a Radar Operator; the Juneau was the first ship to the Korean waters after battle broke out. When discharged he became employed by Illinois Central Railroad for 34 years as an agent/operator and began as a traveling agent in North Mississippi, New Orleans, and South Mississippi.

After serving as a permanent agent in New Hebron for two years, he met the love of his life, Evelyn Faye Berry. They were wed for 58 years and blessed with four children and their spouses; Dennis and Allyson of Magee, Terah & Joey Riley of New Hebron, Laura and Darreck Sullivan of Oxford, and Creston and Amy of Clinton; 13 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in his homegoing by two sisters, two brothers, and one granddaughter, Amanda Grace Hartzog.

Charles was an avid reader and he enjoyed carpentry. When several members of a family lost their lives swimming in Strong River, he dedicated himself to constructing a community swimming pool. He made the statement in 1973 that perhaps it would last until his children were no longer living in New Hebron. The pool is still in use.

He also served his community in many school and church activities.