Barbara (Means) Berkley

Barbara Berkley, 87, Berlin, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, went home to be with Jesus on December 11, 2025. She was born January 3, 1938 in Shippensburg, daughter of the late Chalmers and Elizabeth (McCune) Means. She was the devoted life partner and wife of the late Lewis W. Berkley, with whom she built a life rich in love, hard work, and shared purpose. Also preceded in death by brothers Robert and Chalmers Means, and sisters Margaret Loy, Jeannette Taylor, Marjorie Martin, and Anne Hockersmith. She is survived by her three daughters—each of whom adored her and carry her legacy forward with pride: Michele Romesberg (Josh Glotfelty), Nancy (Todd) Imhoff, and Gina (Jess) Parks. She was “Nini” and “Monnie” to her grandchildren Drew, Grace, Nick, Anna, CeCe, and Joanna, and to her beautiful great-grandchildren Tara, Miller, Chessie, Kade, Parker, Meyer, and Evie. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured love, wisdom, and encouragement into each generation with a gentle and generous heart. Together, Barb and Lew built and stewarded Berkline Holsteins, a respected dairy operation with state and national recognition. Many decisions were made around the kitchen table where the two worked side by side as true partners —right down to selecting sires for their registered cattle. Barb’s insight, practicality, and steady presence were essential to the growth of their family business. Barb was a woman of many gifts. She received her education degree from the Shippensburg State Teachers College and taught in the York public schools early in her career. She carried those skills into her home—supporting her daughters through countless speeches, school projects, and learning moments—and later served the local schools as a dedicated substitute teacher. This extended to her involvement in Somerset County 4-H, mentoring and guiding youth. Her creativity flowed into everything she touched. Barb made imaginative Halloween costumes, beautiful clothing, and vibrant floral arrangements, always adding beauty and care to the ordinary moments of life. Deeply involved in the Berlin community, Barb was an active member of the Trinity United Church of Christ, where she sang in the choir and faithfully served on various leadership and ministry committees. She also played a meaningful role in the Pius Springs Women’s Club, a nonprofit service organization devoted to bettering the local community. Her creativity shone clearly through her work on the Holiday Home Tours, which resulted in many beautifully decorated homes. This project along with many others helped raise scholarship funds for Berlin Brothersvalley students. A lover of history, genealogy, and legacy, Barb invited many speakers to share these interests with the women’s club. She was proud of her family heritage and went through the arduous process of becoming a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. This reflects Barb's lifelong commitment to preserving legacy and stories for future generations. More than anything, Barb will be remembered for her warm and giving spirit—the way she created a home filled with love, always welcoming guests and supporting her husband, daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with unwavering devotion. Her legacy is one of faith, service, creativity, and a deep love of family that touched everyone blessed to know her. The family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to all the wonderful caregivers for their love and support during this final chapter of her life. We would also like to thank Heartland Hospice. A private family service will be held to honor and celebrate her beautiful life. Pastor David Creamer officiating. Interment Berlin I.O.O.F. Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity United Church of Christ, 600 Main Street, Berlin PA 15530. Arrangements entrusted to Deaner Funeral Home, Berlin. DeanerFuneralsAndCremations.com