Ellis Travis Berry

Ellis Travis Berry, 71, of Heath Springs, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, surrounded by those who loved him.

Born in Bishopville, South Carolina, Ellis was the son of the late Ellis Thomas Berry and Nora Matheny Berry. He spent his life working with his hands and his heart. As a custom picture framer, Ellis took pride in his craft, believing that meaningful moments deserved to be beautifully preserved. His creative spirit extended far beyond his work. He found great joy in crafting, model trains, painting, and woodworking.

Ellis was also known for his love of the open road. Riding his motorcycle gave him a sense of freedom and peace, and those who knew him best will remember the smile that always seemed to come with it. He was a man who showed love through patience, skill, and devotion to his family.

For 51 years, Ellis shared a loving marriage with his wife, Nancy Courtney Berry. He was a proud and devoted father to his two sons, Matthew Benjamin “Matt” Berry (Susan) and Andrew Travis “Drew” Berry (Alicia), and a loving grandfather to Brandon Vincent, Ryan Vincent, Gabriele Payne, and Lo Berry. He was especially delighted to become a great-grandfather to Teddy Martin.

Ellis is also survived by his brothers, Dan Berry (Wilma) and James Berry (Donna); his sister, Jeanette Widner; and his brother-in-law, James Scaffe. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Lila Scaffe.

A memorial service celebrating Ellis’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at First United Methodist Church, 200 West Gay Street, Lancaster, South Carolina. A private family inurnment will take place in the church columbarium. The Rev. Neal Woods will officiate.

Those who wish to honor Ellis’s memory may do so with a donation to the American Kidney Foundation, South Carolina Office, 1643 B Savannah Highway, PMB 120, Charleston, SC 29407.

Arrangements are entrusted to Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, South Carolina.