Berle Edgar Hancock, Jr., 85

Berle Edgar Hancock, Jr., 85, of Green Cove Springs, FL, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Monday, October 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Berle was born on June 20, 1941, in Millen, GA. He grew up in Rocky Ford, GA, and graduated from Screven County High School in 1959. Soon after, he met the love of his life, Dottie; they were married in 1965, had three children, and shared 50 years together.

Berle spent his adult life as a machinist for CSX Railroad, retiring after three decades of dedicated service.  Berle’s faith in Jesus and study of Scripture were the cornerstones of his life. His favorite scripture was 3 John 1:4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” Berle loved spending time with his family. His three children, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren brought him a great deal of joy. He was an avid hunter who loved the outdoors, owning over a hundred hunting dogs in his lifetime. Berle was a master storyteller who entertained his family and friends at every gathering. He was a larger-than- life character who never met a stranger. He also had the gift of hospitality. Everyone was welcome at his home, and if you visited, you probably left with some sort of treasure.  Defined by his integrity, he worked hard and had a heart for helping others. His life impacted many people, and he will be greatly missed.

In addition to his parents, Berle Sr. and Evelyn Hancock, Berle is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dottie, and his brother Ernest Hancock. Survivors include his three children, Gary (Whitney), Julie (Vernon), and John (Tara); nine grandchildren, Savannah (Daniel), Emily (William), Jackson (Ali), Megan, Shelby (Anthony), Scarlet, Brooke (Stein), Nathan, and Sadie; two great-grandchildren, Franklin Edgar and Sutton Rose; two sisters, Shirley and Marie (Johnny); numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful dog, Kirby.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m., at Russell Haven of Rest Funeral Home with a short graveside ceremony after the service.

Pallbearers for Mr. Hancock’s service will be Gary Hancock, John Hancock, Vernon Costolo, Jackson Hancock, Nathan Hancock, William Bodden, Daniel Pohnert,  Anthony Thrift, and Stein Harkins.  Franklin Edgar Hancock will be an honorary pallbearer.