Donald Byrd Obituary

DOVER - Jazz Legend, Dr. Donaldson Toussaint O'Luverture Byrd II passed away on Feb. 4, 2013. His namesake will live on through his son, Donaldson Toussaint O'Luverture Byrd III. Rest in peace.

Published by Delaware State News on Feb. 16, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Donald Byrd

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One of the best. Got me listening exclusively to jazz. Riding the streets of Washington dc during my army days. God Bless to your family. RIP

Glenn Holden

Acquaintance

February 16, 2021

I just want to say when I was a young man in elementary school I started listening to him. His sound was so unique that is wasn't anything I heard before. My favorite of his music was Places and Spaces, Flight Time and Falling like Dominoes. I still to this day listen to his music. BAD CAT HE WAS!!! R.I.P Donald Byrd. Are own from the Motorcity (Detroit)..

March 18, 2018

THANKS, for all the music one has played, produced and written. DONALD your music touches folk all over the world. It's not easy being a great musician, but your legacy lives forever. SENDING YOU MANY PRAYERS and MANY BLESSINGS

Valenda Newell

June 27, 2016

A master teacher; a legendary musician; a true friend!!!

Akwasi Osei

August 1, 2015

I will always love you. I have been a fan for many year since I was a young girl sitting at the top of basement stairs listening to my DAD jam to your music.

Rae Wright

March 30, 2015

Life, like a mist , apppears for just a day, then disappears tomorrow, all that we are can quickly fade away replaced with tears and sorrow, if a man dies can he live again? Hear the promise God has made...He will call... the dead shall answer... they shall live at his command. Yes sheer joy will consume us all to see our dead loves ones again.
JW, North Carolina

December 9, 2013

LOVES HAS COME AROUND is my favourite song for ever! Thank you mister Donald Byrd!

phil bay

September 7, 2013

god bless the memory of this giant. he may not be here now but we will always have his wonderful music to remember him by. may your family be comforted with our lords holy spirit to get them through this sad time. R.I.P Donald and thank you for your wonderful music.

victor checketts

August 19, 2013

Donna,

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. He was a musical genius and his legacy will live on in our hearts and minds,forever.
My deepest condolences to you and your family.

Love,
Yvonne Foster Kilpatrick, MS.Ed.
City College of New York

May 7, 2013

Wonderful jazz guy. Loved his music. May his family find comfort in the promises of Jesus Christ

Nazarene Mckinney

March 30, 2013

Thank you for sharing your music and leaving a legacy for future generations. Jesus Christ is The Resurrection and the Life. This we can be sure of.

Nazarene Mckinney

March 22, 2013

What an accomplished man Mr. Byrd was. Not only was he a talented musician, but he also was an educated man. He will be missed, I was very fond of his music. May God bring your family comfort at this difficult time.

J Clark

February 27, 2013

We will always love you. I have been a fan for many years. RIP!

Marshall Meggs

February 26, 2013

God bless you!

joe bokar

February 25, 2013

Rest In Peace!

Jacqueline Simmons

February 20, 2013

Our prayers go out to the family at this time. His music brought joy to so many. We love him and will miss him.

Torie Bracken

February 19, 2013

A great man, musician & educator.
Another player in that great band in Heaven.

RIP

Lenny Ladner

February 18, 2013

Love, Peace and Harmony to the family and relatives of Dr. Donaldson Toussaint L'Ouverture Byrd II who shaped the World of Music. Donald has a special place in our heart.

Steve Vincent

February 18, 2013

May God comfort you.
Praying for you.
Dr.Ron L.Gilmore,D.Min

Ronald Gilmore

February 18, 2013

MAY THE GOD OF MERCY BE WITH THE BYRD FAMILY,FOR HE(GOD)HAS SAID "I-I MYSELF AM THE ONE THAT IS COMFORTING YOU PEOPLE."ISA.51:12....D,NC

February 18, 2013

Sorry for your lose I loves his music.

Barbara Leigh

February 17, 2013

Anonymous

February 17, 2013

I am sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of grief. God cares for you and will help you during your time of need. ( Psalms 121:2)

February 17, 2013

RIP -

Charley Socci

February 17, 2013

I remember Donald Byrd while at NCCU. He was an inspiration to be around. Every Bimbe Festival with He, Chip Crawford and Eve Cornelious made us feel that we were in the presence of greatness! Rest well, your labor is done the victory won. Come into the Master's Joy!

Rev Dr J Anthony Josey

February 17, 2013

My deepest condolences and prayers go out to all of Dr. Byrd's family.
My first memories of Dr. Byrd begin in the 70's, being a kid who loved music; and hearing "Rock Creek Park" on the radio.
When he taught at North Carolina Central University, in the 80's, I had great opportunities to see him perform with his 125th Street band.
Later on, I was blessed to be able to stand next to the man, play music, and get to know him during the Jazzmatazz tours in the 90's. I have some very fond memories from those days....some great lessons and great stories.
Dr. Byrd, thank you for your great music, your mentorship, and some beautiful memories I have and will cherish forever. R.I.P.

Derrick Davis

February 17, 2013

Thank you for the music! To me, you are a melodic genuis! To others you are an innovative educator, great jazz musician, band leader, composer & friend. But to your family, you will FOREVER BE their EVERYTHING! Thank you for gracing the lives of many with your love for authentic music. May you rest well as you spend your days "Walking in Rhythm" in the Heavenlies! God Bless & Rest Your Soul!

Robbin

February 17, 2013

It was not too long ago that I introduced my 23 year-old son to Donald Byrd...and he fell in love! Thank you Mr. Byrd for leaving us your legacy.

Kathy Bridgeman

February 17, 2013

R.I.P. Donald Byrd, your music will never be forgotten.

Tina Feggans

February 17, 2013

I will never forget my introduction to Jazz Studies at Howard University by Donald Byrd. It opened my eyes to a wonderful world of music and a deeper appreciation of my father's contribution to music.

Pamela Jacquet-Davis, MD

February 16, 2013

MAY THE FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND FANS FOUND
COMFORT IN ROMANS 8:28-38. I HAD ONE
CHANCE TO SEE N, DONALD AND THE BLACK BIRDS PEFORM AT MY UNIVERSITY
...THIS WERE DURNING THE 70'S. THE CONCERT WAS A RARE TREAT THAT I WILL FOREVER TREASURE...THAT EVE I FELL IN
LOVE WITH HIS MUSIC...PRIOR TO THE CONCERT I DIDN'T KNOW MR. BYRD EXISTED;
AND I WAS ENCHANTED. HIS LEGACY AND
CONTRIBUTION TO MUSIC WILL FOREVER BE
A LASTING ONE TO ME AND BILLIONS MORE.
SINCERE PRAYERS, SYMPATHY AND EMPATHY,
BREN HARRELL

BREN HARRELL

February 16, 2013

Your family have my deepest sympathy. May you find comfort in Matt. 5:4

Regina

February 16, 2013

Mr. Donald Byrd's music reminds me of happy times! Thank you so much Donald Byrd you are truly a legend!

Janice Cantrell

February 16, 2013

THE LEGENT IS AT PEACE LETS PRAY FOR THE FAMILY THE BYRD.

PAUL LEWIS

February 16, 2013

I am sorry for your loss. Soon there will be a time when death will be no more. (Revalaion 21:4)

February 16, 2013

Your music takes me back to the 70's and brings back great memories. I still listen to your music to this day. It is always active in my iPod . Thanks Donald for helping me "Rock and Roll Again"

Waymond Wade,Jr

February 16, 2013

To the Family of Donald Byrd;
I am so sorry about your loss. I remember when was a young lady, I use to sit and listen to Donald's music into the wee hours of the night and reminisce about how lovely the world was with this beautiful music. May he RIP.

Alberta Taylor

February 16, 2013

Hey, I remember the song called Happy Music in the mid 70's that came out by the Blackbirds, man that was jamming back then we all will miss you, Mr. Donald Byrd and Thanks for the memories and for giving us some Happy Music!!!! RIP!! Mr. Donald Byrd, I will miss you as will your fans! To His Son, Donald III and His daughter, Your Dad was one of the great ones!!!!

Winfred Jackson

February 16, 2013

Listening to Mr Byrd in Jan 2013. Brought back some memories of Me and my deceased Husband (he died Jan 99). GOD and his music helps me escape the loss and sadness I feel during the many Januarys. We saw him in concert, boy did we have a ball. Now you can play that heavenly music UP THERE!!Flight Time, Wind Parade, Sky High, Summer Love, U and Music, etc.
RIP Byrd Man!!

Beverly Simmons

February 16, 2013

To a greatg Kappa brother, and dynamic musician! You will forever live in my heart! RIP DB!

Lacy DeBerry

February 15, 2013

"Flight Time" my friend. Peace be upon you and your family.

February 15, 2013

YOUR MUSIC LIVES ON THROUGH ALL OF US.

Lloyd Brown,sr.

February 15, 2013

Your music with live on.

Mercia King

February 15, 2013

Your reflections and thoughts of my father are greatly appreciated by my sister (Donna Byrd Faust ) and me.
Thanks
Donaldson Toussaint O'Luverture Byrd III

February 15, 2013

My sincerest condolences. I absolutely loved his music and attended several oh his live performances . May he rest in pece.

brenda adams

February 15, 2013

During the 70's his music really helped me learn some facts about life. I still enjoy his sounds today. R.I.P.

Ray Green

February 15, 2013

D God has a better place for you ,in a final resting place where only the elite lay a place for the ultimate man you fit that description by all means you will always pave the road 4 musicians that are upcoming. God bless you!

Michael Wilcox

February 15, 2013

I can remember coolin out to d Byrd back in the 70s his music was so touching put you in the mood of pure escape & relaxin one of a kind Rip.

Michael Wilcox

February 15, 2013

Sir, you will be missed dearly. You created some of the best jazz music, I ever heard. RIP.

MAJ Alan B. Taylor

February 15, 2013

Rest In Peace . You are a true legend.

Sharon Hughes Carmon
Houston, Texas

February 15, 2013

RIP. MAY GOD RICHLY BLESS THIS FAMILY.

February 15, 2013

May you find comfort and treasure the memories of your loved one. I send my sincere condolences. (Romans15:4)

Pat

February 15, 2013

Donald I loved your music rest in peace in the arms of
Jesus Christ and blow your beautiful music from your
horn GOD bless your soul
Amen!

Dedria Jenkins

February 15, 2013

To the family of Mr. Donald Byrd, may the many memroies always stay close to your hearts and souls. Jazz is my all favorite music to listen to. Mr. Byrd music will always be played in the years to come.-

Margaret

February 15, 2013

Dr. Bird may the peace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you always. Rest in peace as your music lives forever. What and epitaph?

Mikki Donald

February 15, 2013

TO THE BYRD FAMILY; MAY MY FAMILY AND I OFFER OUR CONDOLENCES. IN MY YOUNGER YEARS I HAD THE CHANCE OF MEETING MR. BYRD AND SOME BAND MEMBERS AFTER A SHOW IN CANTON, OHIO. HE TALKED TO US WITH WORDS OF WISDOM ABOUT DOS AND DON'TS WHEN TRAVELING FROM SHOW TO SHOW. WE LISTENED WITH SINCERITY. I'LL NEVER FORGET HIM.

DANNY THOMAS AND FAMILY

DANNY THOMAS

February 15, 2013

Mr.Bryd will always live in the Light. God Bless his Family.

Olive Marshall

February 14, 2013

What beautiful music you made I love it all. Rest in peace.

Donna Harris

February 14, 2013

Dr. Byrd,
Thank you for all the great music over the years. Rest in Peace!

Bryan Walker

February 14, 2013

with deepest sympathies to the family at this time of grief the Bible says God is our refuge and strength a help that is to be found add difficult times and may God provide you with Comfort. Tina Los Angeles

Tina Morgan

February 14, 2013

To the Byrd family, offering deepest sympathies during this difficult time. May you find comfort in these words..."he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."

February 14, 2013

Mr. Byrd has flown. Be free, my man.

Paul Sweum

February 14, 2013

You are now at Peace.

Janet Barrino

February 14, 2013

Rest in Peace, Mr.Donald Bryd.I will allway,s Remember your music.

Janet Barrino

February 14, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

February 14, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

G. Freeman

February 14, 2013

Rest in peace my brother, rock creek park , o yea.

Bobby Gordon ll

February 14, 2013

Byrd Family,
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us comfort YOUR hearts and make YOU firm during this sorrowful time.

A Fan Of Jazz

February 14, 2013

So much talent and love for music; And very soon God will satisfy the desire of every living thing (Psalm 145:16). With condolences to family and friends.

Barb

February 14, 2013

Rip Donald Byrd your music will live on god bless u and your family and friends u will be missed

janet allesxandro

February 14, 2013

i had the pleasure of listening to him @ fort dupont in DC in 81' with the blackbird and that i'll never forget...it was the best ...will miss

butch

February 14, 2013

Mr. Byrd thank you for the wonderful soulful sounds of jazz and R&B musical masterpieces that you have given us for so…many years. I like so many others' will continue to cherish the musical footprints of your legacy as your music continue to live on forever.
For I, would like to remember you fondly as a musical genius walking in rhythm, with trumpet in hand, on to the next plateau in life. May God bless and keep you…
My deepest sympathy to your family for their loss.
Your Fan Forever,
Ms. Allen-Harper

February 14, 2013

I'll always remember the legacy of Mr. Byrd at Howard University! He would talk to me about jazz music! May he rest in peace!

Darlene Mai Roberts

February 14, 2013

I can remember how Donald Byrd had us "Walking in rhythmn" as young bucks, music should have an effect "take you on a ride" and "Walking in rhythmn" made, and makes me feel warm and good to this day,we just loved his sound and his genius,what a loss for the world, rest on my friend and may god bless and keep you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bruce Kelly

February 14, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

EG

February 13, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

EG

February 13, 2013

I'm glad that I had the opportunity to hear Mr. Byrd play at a live concert a couple years ago. He was one of the best trumpeters in this world. Heaven is definitely going to be jamming! R.I.P.

Jackie Layne

February 13, 2013

REST IN PEACE MR.BYRD.

Cheryl Wheeler

February 13, 2013

r.i.p. mr byrd

frank fitzgerald

February 13, 2013

THANKYOU FOR ALLOWING ME TO FALL IN LOVE WITH JAZZ; ITS BEEN LIFE LONG BECAUSE OF YOU...REST IN PEACE..BLESS YOUR FAMILY

Lorraine Howard

February 13, 2013

We will miss those great sounds! Rock Creek Park.
God Bless Your Family...

Ollie

February 13, 2013

Rest in peace Mr. Byrd. Mr Byrd you did a great job preparing young people to understand and disperse the sound of music in the spirit of excellence. Thanks for "Walking in Rhythm" and all of the sounds we will hear for all times to come!! I pray That Mr. Byrd family will be strong through this period of sorrow. What a great man!!!

Felix Locklin

February 13, 2013

Deepest Sympathy to the Byrd family. "Wind Parade" and "Steppin into Tomorrow" influenced my love for preogressive Jazz. The Blackbyrd's soprano saxophonist influenced me to learn the instrument in high school. Donald Byrd's legacy on American Jazz music performance and education will live on for many genarations. RIP

Frank

February 13, 2013

May you soar forever. I did not know he lived in Dover, Delaware, imagine that. Had I known, I would had found you. I have been a great, great fan of his since the '70s. My favorite was Places and Spaces, it always took me to another place. Ooh ooh oohh... Rest in peace Mr. Byrd. I will always be a fan and thanks for giving me your music.

Melissa Mickens

February 13, 2013

I love love love your music so much Mr.Byrd. Thank you so much for leaving such great music as yours. I will never forget you. RIP.

J M

February 13, 2013

thank you for the joy you brought and the the musicians you taught. we are a better world thanks to you.

Mark Tulley

February 13, 2013

To the Family, I would like to express my deepest sympathy for your dear loved one who has fallen asleep in death. May the God of all comfort be with you during this most difficult time. ~(Psalms 65:2)~

L. Walters

February 13, 2013

may you rest in peace. your music will never die.

vernell carter

February 13, 2013

So sorry to hear about your loss of your love one. May God be your rock and strength during this distressful time. He is truly the God of all comfort.
T Stigler,Michigan

February 13, 2013

Gone, But Never Will Be Forgotten.

M.L. Willis

February 13, 2013

God bless the family during this time. The music created by Donald was in a categeory by its own.I thank you for Spaces and Places those songs touch my heart, and lifts my spirits R.I.P. Nothing but love for you man

Sam Payton

February 13, 2013

We were in Law school at Howard Univ. We sat next to each other and talked on many occasions about music,etc.A personable man. He'll be missed RIP.

Ira Kemp

February 13, 2013

May you rest in peace Mr. Byrd and may God bless your family at this time of sorrow. You leave behind a great legacy of music which will be enjoyed throughout the rest of time.

J. Shepard Jr

February 13, 2013

May it comfort you to know that God, as well as others, care about your feelings at this time of great loss.

Sincerely,

February 13, 2013

With deepest sympathy to the Byrd family during your time of grief...God is a refuge and strength, a help that is abundantly available during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.

C Johnson

February 13, 2013

May our God of comfort and all tender mercies grant you peace of heart and provide you solace from your fondest memories of Da Byrd man.

February 13, 2013

I HAVE ALWAYS AND STILL DO HAVE ONE OF THE GREATEST COLLECTIONS OF HIS MUSIC LASSANAS PREITESS AND FLIGHT TIME TOP OF THE LIST REALLY GLAD TO HAVE HAD THE OPPURTUNITY TO ENJOY YOUR LIFE AND YOUR MUSIC

WAYNE MARTIN

February 13, 2013

I was sadden when to heard about the death of Donald Byrd. Family, friends, and fans can look forward the seeing him again when everyone in the memorial tombs hear our Lord and Saviors voice and come out.

Tom Smith

February 13, 2013

I always selected BruthaByrd for "road music". Whether it be turnpike or around the corner!

RL Shelburne

February 13, 2013

Your music will live on. Thank you for you artistry and courage. R.I.P.

Linda Puryear

February 13, 2013

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