Jon Howard Berryhill

CASA GRANDE - Jon Howard Berryhill, 74, of Casa Grande, a retired teacher, died at home on March 11, 2016.

Mr. Berryhill was born on Dec. 10, 1941, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. He graduated from Northern Arizona University in 1965 and taught in Benson before moving to Casa Grande Union High School in 1968. He taught there until retirement, a total of about 40 years. He was well known for his love of English and literature.

He taught a class called "The Grammar Hammer," and some of his fondest memories were of his team class and the students. He also coached wrestling, baseball and football. Having a cheery disposition, he was rarely seen without a smile on his face. He loved to tap dance and was a jack-of-all-trades who could fix almost anything. He was devoted to his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include two sons, John H. Berryhill II of Smithfield, Utah, and Jeffery H. Berryhill of Phoenix; a daughter, Jana Maclellan of Glendale; three stepsons, Robert and Keith Zimmerli of Phoenix and Jimmy Santangelo of Colorado; two stepdaughters, Linda Zimmerli and Ilona Sisk of Phoenix; many grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ilona, and a granddaughter, Dallas Berryhill.

Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel. The celebration of life will follow at 11, with Bishop John H. Berryhill II officiating.