James Berkley “Berk” Mark, 69, of Mt. Sterling, a devoted husband, father and friend of many, died Friday, April 24, 2026, at the UofL Jewish Hospital in Louisville.
Born April 16, 1957, in Montgomery County, he was the son of the late Thomas B. Mark and Ethel Frances Mark. He was a farmer, mentor and school bus driver. He was a proud graduate of and football player for Montgomery County High School. He also had lifelong friendships from his time at Morehead State University, where he received his associate’s degree before returning to his family farm. He valued his family farming legacy and enjoyed more than anything being out on the farm with his two boys. He was passionate about agriculture and farmed for over 50 years. He served as President of the Montgomery County Farm Bureau for over 20 years, as Charter and Executive Board member of the Montgomery County Cattlemen’s Association, and on the Extension Council. He was named Outstanding Young Tobacco Farmer of Kentucky in 1989 and paved the way with innovative farming practices, as one of the first farmers in the state to use tobacco float beds. His passion led him to connect with others throughout the county and state. He cherished his friends and never missed an opportunity to connect or catch up. Beginning in 2020, he transitioned to leasing the family farm and found joy in working with younger producers while no longer having to manage the day-to-day operations. For the last few years, he has been driving a special-needs school bus, where he cared for and built strong connections with the kids.
Suvivors include his wife, Jackie Mark; son, Tyler (Rebecca) Mark of Simpsonville; daughter-in-law, Ashley Mark (widow of Corey C. Mark) of Ft. Mitchell; cherished grandson, Grady C. Mark of Ft. Mitchell; sister, Susan Mark Stidam of Taylorsville; and nieces, Rebecca Stidam Barnard of Lexington and Rachel Stidam Bratton of Richmond.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his beloved son, Corey C. Mark.
Service was conducted Wednesday, April 29, at Gateway Christian Church with Pastor Bill Kilgore officiating. Burial was in Macheplah Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Wes Whisman, Patrick Daily, Art Amburgey, Jerry Long, Mark Kinsey and Lincoln Clifford.
Honorary pallbearers were Grady C. Mark, Bobby Whitaker, David Donaldson, Eric George, Ben Clifford and Jerrod Long.
In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Gateway Christian Church and Backpack Project 52, which serves Montgomery County youth by providing access to food beyond school-provided provisions.
Taul Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements.
