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Roswell, Georgia

Jason Byce Obituary

Family-Placed Death Notice

JASON BYCE Jason Byce, ne Ervin Luther Buice, Jr., internationally known actor/singer/director, passed away on Sunday, February 13, 2005 due to complications related to Multiple Myeloma. In 1962, at the age of 18, Jason Byce began his professional theatre career as a member of the Theatre Under The Stars at Atlanta's Chastain Park. The same season Jason made his operatic debut in La Traviata with Dorothy Kirsten, Richard Tucker and Robert Merrill, after which his career took a variety of creative avenues. Mr. Byce served in The United States Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He held a Bachelor's Degree in Voice from Furman University, and a Master's Degree in Voice and Opera Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Mr. Byce was cantor and soloist for Saint Patrick's Cathedral and soloist for Temple Israel while living in New York City. Jason Byces' opera repertoire contained more than 25 major roles. He was leading baritone soloist with the Opera Company of Boston, the National Theatre of Yugoslavia in Zagreb and Split, the Wiesbaden Opera in West Germany, and in New York's Lyric Opera and Bel Canto Opera. He performed as guest soloist with several leading symphony orchestras, including the Atlanta Symphony, the Boston Symphony, the Greenville Symphony, the Long Beach Symphony and the National Repertory Orchestra. In the field of musical theatre, Jason starred with such notables as Shirley Jones in BITTER SWEET, Andrea McCardle in Annie Get Your Gun, Ruth Lee in UNSINKABLE MOLLY BROWN, Elke Sommer in WOMAN OF THE YEAR, Lainie Kazan in FUNNY GIRL, John Carradine in THE FANTASTICS, Stella Parton in SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS, Avery Schreiber in A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, John Cullum in CAMELOT, John Astin in LEND ME A TENOR, and Cindy Williams in MOON OVER BUFFALO, to name a few. Jason appeared on several daytime series, including All My Children, Days of Our Lives, One Life To Live and As The World Turns. He also guest-starred on locally filmed shows, such as I'll Fly Away, Savannah, and In The Heat oaf The Night starring Carroll O'Connor. He was recognized by a guest appearance on Live with Regis and Kathi Lee for his popular Polaner All-Fruit commercial in which he asks, "Would 'ja please pass the jelly?!" Locally, Jason has starred in two Theatre in the Square productions, Lend Me A Tenor (Tito Merelli) and Little Joe Monaghan (Fred Palmer) and directed the 1994 production of "1940's Radio Hour. He was presented the coveted "Jenny Award" as Best Actor for both of these performances. In July of '96, as part of the Atlanta Cultural Olympics, Jason performed a leading role with the Atlanta Opera in a staged concert performance of Gershwin's Pulitzer award-winning Of Thee I Sing. For two seasons he also sang the narration for The Atlanta Youth Orchestra's Christmans production of The Polar Express. "Mr Byce" looked forward each year to directing Choral Students at Smitha Middle School in a professionally directed and performed Broadway Spring Musical. Mr. Byce is survived by his wife, MaryEm; Mother, Lela "Bo" Buice, three children, Allyson West Cybul, John Burton West and his wife Lee, Jayson Charles West and his wife, Marianne, as well as precious grandchildren, Benjamin Adam Cybul and Hannah Rebekah Cybul, Anne Hollins West and Pate Charles West, and John "Jack" Riley West, and beloved Buice cousins. All friends and relatives are invited to attend a Memorial Service, celebrating the life of Jason Byce, at 3:00p.m. Wednesday, February 16th at the Roswell First Baptist Church...710 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell, Georgia. The family will receive friends at 1:30 p.m. in the Church Parlor. Roswell Funeral Home, 950 Mansell Road, 770-993-4811, www.roswellfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Feb. 15, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Jason Byce

36 Entries

Patrick Moody

October 31, 2023

In clearing up some old letters, I came across two letters from Jason from 1993, which prompted me to see to look for this announcement.
I had heard that Jason had passed, but had no idea of the comprehensiveness of his career.
Wow.
Jason and I worked at the old Burt Reynolds Dinner Theater in the early '80s when he played the lead in the musical comedy spoof, "Little Mary Sunshine". This was the beginning of a friendship that lasted decades. My wife Amy and I moved to California and I got to see Jason in "Lend me a Tenor" in Pasadena with John Astin. Jason's performance and comedic timing in that show made me laugh to the point that I almost wet myself. Jason was truly one of the funniest men I have ever met. Later, Jason introduced me to Elke Summer, and came to show I was directing in Los Angeles.
One thing is for sure: he truly loved Mary Em (God bless her- they are now both in heaven, together again), and he expressed his love for her in the letters he wrote to me.
For his children and grandchildren, I want to share what he wrote to me regarding his love for your mother and grandmother, Mary Em:
" Mary Em and I are two of the happiest people on the face of this greasy aquamarine marble! Boy, I never knew how wonderful married life with the right person could be. My only regret is that it took us this long to finally find each other. God really knew what he was doing when he created the institution. I've finally met my guide, my friend, my lover, my confidante, my everything!"(dated May 20, 1993)
I am missing my old buddy and golf partner. Thanks for the memories Jason! Thank you, Lord Jesus, for bringing us together so many years ago. May this simple missive and tribute to a GREAT actor and GREATER friend be a blessing to anyone who may read it.
- Patrick Moody, Palm Beach Gardens, FL

-

AnneTaylor Smith

March 5, 2005

Mrs. Byce-

There isn't anything I could say right now that could express the sadness going through every one of your students hearts. Mr. Byce was the biggest inspiration of all. It is thanks to him and yourself that I'm investing in acting. And I will never forget either one of you! I love you forever.

In Him,

AnneTaylor Smith

"Mrs.Peterson"

Jennifer Foster

February 27, 2005

Dear Mrs. Byce,

Our entire family has been deeply saddened by the news of your loss. You and Mr. Byce gave the gift of music to our family. You set a standard of excellence in our children's lives that they have not forgotten. Melanie and Kenneth continue to sing and perform, most recently in the play Your a Good Man Charlie Brown as Lucy and Linus respectively. This spring, Melanie will be playing Maria in The Sound of Music. You and Mr.Byce recognized and nurtured their talent. We never watch our children on stage without remebering The Byces. In the words of Charles Dickens...The pure, the bright, the beautiful that stirred our hearts in youth...the spirit's yearning cry, the striving after better hopes...these things can never die. Mr. Byce lives on thorugh the lives he has touched.

All our love and respect,

The Fosters ( Tommy, Jennifer, Melanie, Michael and Kenneth)

Anica Wiebe

February 24, 2005

Dear,Mr. Byce

You are the most knowlegeable person i have met. You are willing to do anything for anyone. You think of everyone first before yourself that is great about you. You helped me on the playes that i was in. You can do so much and everyone wants to listen to what you have to say because it could help them in the long run. You were the best actor that i have ever met and i am sad that you had to leave us so soon but i love you dearly on what you have taught me and other people.I love you so much Mr. Byce

Love, Anica Wiebe

Maya Wakeland

February 24, 2005

Hey Mrs. byce its maya. I just wanted to say that i love you both. Mr. byce and you gave me some of the best memories of my life and i will nver be able to forget him or you. Both of you made me a better person and i want to say thank you for everything you too did. All the late night practices all your devoted time. i love you both soo much. And am so sorry for your loss.

Lee Garen

February 24, 2005

What a shock to read of Jason's passing. I worked with him at WGKA and enjoyed him, his sense of humor and professionalism very much.

Jason will be sorely missed by all.

He was a very talented person.

Brandon Wright (aka) Hugo Peabody

February 21, 2005

Mrs. Byce,

Hello it's Brandon Wright From your last eighth grade class. I am deeply saddened by your loss. The last time i saw Mr. Byce was on the coach arriving at Smitha from Disney. Thank you to Him and You for all of your hard work in my musical career. To Hannah, Ben and Mrs. Cybal. I'm sorry for your loss. Remember Death is only the beggining . He is in a better place now, I am sure. Goodbye Mr. Byce, a Legend, a teacher, a Friend. Thank You

George Clements

February 19, 2005

MaryEm --

Jason and I were in the same training class at American Coach

Lines. I was delighted when the class manager paired us together for the on-the-bus training. Even though I was already CDL certified as a school bus driver, we all were amazed at how quickly Jason learned all the techniques in driving a large vehicle. He was always a pleasure to be with and I thoroughly enjoyed our times together. You are especially in my thoughts at this time as I just lost my wife of 43+ years in January. Time, they tell us, will soften the grief you now feel. I sure hope that is true. By the other entries in this guest book, it is clear that Jason was a special person to many, many people. May those pleasant memories help you during this difficult time.

George Clements

Natalie Feller

February 17, 2005

Dear Mrs. Byce, Allyson, Ben and Hannah:

The memorial service was indeed a celebration of life. What a wonderful and touching tribute to a life well-lived. Mr. Byce touched so many others in his short lifetime in ways you may never fully realize. May God grant you the strength to carry on without your beloved Jason.

Fondly,

The Feller Family

Elaine Jackson Price-te Meij and Family

February 17, 2005

Dear Mrs. Buice, MaryEm and Family,

Jason was a fine man and a true gentleman. Growing up with him was such a pleasure and he never changed. He had a heart of gold, a voice that could touch your soul, and he shared his love of life with everyone who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God has another Wonderful Angel to fill his Choir and sing praises in Heaven. God Bless You in your time of sorrow.

Sincerely with Love,

Emily Hewett

February 16, 2005

Dear Mrs. Byce,

Our family was so sorry to hear of Mr. Byce's passing. We've always thought of the two of you being such a team. At Smitha, it seemed like our kids got two choral teachers for the price of one because Mr. Byce was right there with you adding his expertise along with yours. You are in our prayers daily.

Dwight, Emily, and Michael Hewett and Elizabeth Hewett Thomas

Steve Landers

February 16, 2005

Theresa, Corey, Traci and I are all saddened by Jason's passing. He certainly helped you Mrs. Byce to make Corey's and Traci's experiences in chorus, from the productions to the trips, that much more special with him sharing his experience and caring. We all have many fond memories of all the times we spent with you and Jason during the middle school years. We will miss him. Please know that you are in our prayers and invite you to call on us for any needs. The Landers

Rick Hanson

February 16, 2005

MaryEm,

We are deeply saddened to hear of Jason's passing and you are in our hearts and prayers. We will always remember how Jason modestly shared his talents, enthusiasm, and joy and what a positive influence he was in the lives of our children. God bless you.

Rick and Debra Hanson

Ron & Carolyn Buice

February 16, 2005

MaryEm, Bo & Children,

We've just returned from Jason's Memorial Service. What a wonderful service for a wonderful man. The song recording by Jason at the tender age of three so warmed our hearts as did the other recordings with you, MaryEm. What a special couple you two were.

Heaven is rejoicing with Jason and Uncle Luke today. What harmony they must be making!

Please know that our prayers are with you. Jason was truly a great friend, and we loved him.

God Bless you and keep you.

Love,

brenda powell

February 16, 2005

Hannah and Ben I'm sorry for your loss. Hannah I remember your grandpa brought your dog to our third grade class.How proud he was of both you and Ben. Mr. Byce lived a powerful life. My love to Ben, Hannah,Allyson and MaryEm.

your third grade teacher

Lisa Hester

February 16, 2005

Ms. Byce. We are so sad to hear of your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are grateful to have known Mr. Byce through Smitha, he was an inspiration to all of the children he directed.

Lisa & Wendal Hester

Jessica & Adam Hoyak

Beverly Hogan

February 16, 2005

Dear Ms. Byce,

I Worked with Jason at Ameican Coach Lines. He was a blessing to

see in our office from time to time.

He always had a smile on his face

and that bubbly attitude.I can see why many of our customers requested him for their charters.He was a bright light to be around always,

we will miss him dearly.

Beverly Hogan

Esther Williams

February 16, 2005

My dear MaryEm:

How sad I am to read of Jason's death. My love and prayers are with you and your family. With love, Esther

Brenda Bowen-Mansell

February 15, 2005

Mrs. Buice, MaryEm and family. I am so blessed to have grown up with Jason. He came to our Roswell High Class of '62 Reunion in 2002 and the memories are fond. Jason sang at my dad's funeral, only to have his dad pass a week later. Our small class has stayed in touch and we will miss him so much.

Harvey Oshinsky

February 15, 2005

Dear MaryEm,

I can't tell you how sorry I am about Jason. Ever since Claudia called me on Sunday with the sad news, Jason has continually been in my thoughts. Carol, Bob and I got together a little while ago and spent the evening recalling all our wonderful memories of him. We loved Jason and will miss him terribly. For sure the angels are already passing the jelly.

With sympathy, Harvey

Karen Loyd

February 15, 2005

I am truly sadden by this. I remember all the trips we took in chorus with Mr. and Mrs. Byce. We always had so much fun. I'll never forget when my mother asked Mr. Byce to say his famous jelly quote. He was a fine man, and will be missed.

Judy Williams

February 15, 2005

MaryEm, my heart goes out to you. I have been in Atlanta recently and tried calling and found out about how critical Jason was. I am so sorry you've lost your love. Please know our prayers are with you and yours.

Ashley Caraway

February 15, 2005

I am very sorry to hear about your loss. Mr. Byce was am amazing person and an inspiration to many. Dont lose sight of what you believe. God will get you through it. i love you, Mrs. Byce.

Psalm 139: 1-10

1 peter 3:8-9

Psalm 86:1-4

Carol Cook

February 15, 2005

I just want to say how sorry I am for this loss. Jason was my favorite driver. We went on charters together. He'll be missed a lot, but now he's in heaven. His friend, Carol.

Brenda Bynum

February 15, 2005

Jason was a true gentleman, with a huge talent and a huge heart. It was my privilege to know him and a joy to work with him. We did a play together at Theatre in the Square about 10 years ago and many fond memories remain with me of his good humor and professionalism. He will surely be missed by so very many.

Nina Kinsler "Wetherbee"

February 15, 2005

Mrs. Byce, I heard about your husband and wanted to let you know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I was in your chorus class('93-'95) at Smitha and remember Mr. Byce serenading to me one day in class. I will always remember that. He was a wonderful man. May God be with you and your family in this time of need.

Susan Burgess

February 15, 2005

Dear Mrs. Byce,

We are so sorry for your loss. We intend to keep you and your family in our prayers and hope that you may find some comfort in knowing others care.

May God bless you and bring you peace,

Susan and Michael and the rest of the Burgess family

Maxine Thomas

February 15, 2005

May God give your family enduring peace as you embrace the sweet memories of your beloved Jason.Keep the faith.

Marilyn Dodson

February 15, 2005

Jason was one of the most special people I have ever met. He and MaryEm will always have a special place in my heart.

Susan Davis

February 15, 2005

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Byce will truly be missed by many. Kristen, Paul and I send you our love and condolences. We have very fond memories of Mr. and Mrs. Byce and the influence you have had on our lives. Our prayers are with you during this most difficult time.

Jim/Margaret Ovbey

February 15, 2005

We are very sorry and will miss Jason's warmth and humor. Jim, Margaret, Tim and Joe Ovbey

Lauren Wood-Viscardi

February 15, 2005

Dear Mrs. Byce,

Michael and I are so saddened by your loss of "Mr. Byce", as we knew him. We have great memories. It was fun having him on the Chorus field trips, and the "Polar Express" was a fantastic experience. Please know that you and your family are in our hearts and prayers.

With sympathy and hugs,

Lauren Wood-Vsicardi and Michael Viscardi

Mary d'Avant Moore

February 15, 2005

MaryEm - I am so sorry for your loss. Erv and I were in the same class at Furman. I met you at a FU reunion. He will be missed by all.

Stan Pethel

February 15, 2005

Jason was a fine fellow. He taught for us here at Berry for a year, filling in at the last moment for a drama faculty who took another posiition late. He was thoroughly a professional, and we enjoyed his work at Berry.

I'm saddened by the news of his passing.

Stan Pethel

Chair of Fine Arts

Megan King

February 15, 2005

No words can ease the pain. However, please know that I am praying for your family and the good Lord is with you. Mr. Byce was a great man, and I feel honred to have been able to work with such an amazing, kind, gentle, and talented man while at Smitha.

In His name,

Megan King

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