Story perspectives

Wendell Berry, 92, dies at Kentucky home

9/9/2026

Summary

Wendell Berry Dies

Wendell Berry died at his home in Port Royal, Kentucky, at age 92.
His daughter Mary Berry confirmed his death.
Berry authored more than 50 books championing small farms and local food.
President Barack Obama presented him with the National Humanities Medal in 2011.
His anti-chemical, anti-agribusiness stance inspired advocates, prompting comparisons to Thoreau and Jefferson.

Summary

Wendell Berry Inspires

Patrick Deneen credits Berry with prompting the creation of the Front Porch Republic.
Gracy Olmstead honored Berry with an elegy that reflects his personal encouragement to friends.
Norman Wirzba says meeting Berry convinced him agrarian skills are essential for community healing.
James Matthew Wilson predicts Berry’s novels will soon be regarded alongside Faulkner and Cather.
Will Brown notes America has labeled Berry variously as Luddite, saint, radical, and prophetic witness.

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Wendell Berry Dies

Wendell Berry died at his home in Port Royal, Kentucky, at age 92.
His daughter Mary Berry confirmed his death.
Berry authored more than 50 books championing small farms and local food.
President Barack Obama presented him with the National Humanities Medal in 2011.
His anti-chemical, anti-agribusiness stance inspired advocates, prompting comparisons to Thoreau and Jefferson.

1 / 2