Jim BerryJim Berry, head of Republic Parking System and the owner of some major downtown buildings, died this morning.
Berry's company became a leading parking management firm after having begun as an operator of parking areas at airports under the name Air Terminal Parking. The company was formed in 1966.
He also was the owner of the Republic Centre and Liberty Tower, both high-rise buildings located on Chestnut Street in downtown Chattanooga.
Berry also was active in banking circles in Chattanooga, having been chairman of United American Bank of Hamilton County in the early '80s when he tried to save that bank as the Jake Butcher United American banking empire crumbled across Tennessee. The local United American Bank was eventually acquired by Union Planters Bank of Memphis, Tenn.
The family will provide full details on arrangements later, but said donations may be made to Bethel Bible Village, Meadowview Baptist.com, Siskin Hospital or First Things First.