In Memory

Beth Garrison (Berry) - Class Of 1943

 

Beth Berry, 78, who taught elementary grades in the PVPUSD at Montemalaga, Pedregal, and Mira Catalina Schools from 1961 until her retirement in 1990, passed away January 22, 2009, at Torrance Memorial Hospital after a long illness following a stroke five and a half years ago.

Beth was a longtime member of the PVP AAUW and the Palos Verdes Women's Club.  In AAUW she participated in a book group, Reader's Theater, Couples Bridge with her husband Ed Berry and Lunch Bunch.  She was an innovator and chair for Project Poetry, in which 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students in many Palos Verdes elementary public and private school memorized and presented selected poems for judging by AAUW members.  Winning students at each school received a trophy, and then were invited to the finals at the PV Library, where the overall winners at each grade level received gift certificates from local businesses.  The project encouraged students to become acquainted with classic poetry and share it with others.  It continued for about 10 years.

Beth was the recipient of the PVP branch Status of Women Award in 2000 and of an AAUW Educational Foundation named gift award in 1988 and also in 1997.

In the PV Women's Club she served actively on several committees and especially on the annual Guarden Tour.

During her active years she enjoyed skiing and hiking in the Sierras, and playing tennis at the Jack Kramer Tennis Club.

She is survived by her husband, Ed.  Interment was at Green Hills Memorial Park.

Beth was a dynamic woman with lots of spirit.  She will be greatly missed.