March 6, 2023, 78, Goldsboro –

Ottis O’Berry Cruse, Jr., 78, entered his eternal home with his Lord and Savior, surrounded by his family on Monday, March 6, 2023. Berry was born in Union County, South Carolina to the late Ottis O’Berry Cruse, Sr., and Frances Gibson Cruse on June 14, 1944. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sons, Ottis O. Cruse, III, and Roy Franklin Cruse; and sister, Evelyn Clark.

A retired veteran of the United States Army, Berry faithfully served our country during the Vietnam conflict and in the Dominican Republic, retiring after twenty-one years of valiant service. Following his military career, he continued to work as an auto body technician with Scott Motor Company.

Actively involved in the ministries of First Assembly of God, now known as Generation Church, Berry was a man of deep faith who was committed to serving his Lord. His faith in Christ was paramount in his life and shaped his relationships with others. Family was his most prized possession, and he proved this by being the best husband, dad, and papa.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 10, 2023, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at the Generation Church, 3016 Summit Road, Goldsboro. A service to celebrate Berry’s life will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Josh Clark officiating. Interment with military honors will be in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.

Berry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Irma Dean Cruse; daughter, Debra Stoner and husband, Greg of Goldsboro; son, Robin Cruse and wife, Barbara of Princeton; seven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Berry’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.