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Atlanta, Georgia

Kinaya Byrd Obituary


Family-Placed Death Notice

BYRD, Kinaya MS. KINAYA SCHENESE BYRD Ms. Kinaya Schenese Byrd of Stockbridge departed this life on February 12, 2010. A Homegoing Celebration will be held on Friday, February 19, 2010 at 1:00 pm at St Paul AME Church, 1540 Pryor Rd SW, Atlanta, GA The Reverend Dr. Thomas L. Bess, Senior Pastor, officiating. In state 11:00 am until the hour of the service. Interment South View Cemetery. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the church starting at 12:00 noon on the day of the service. Kinaya Schenese Byrd was born September 8, 1975. The only child of the late Donella Leah Byrd and Richard Harris Byrd. At St. Paul A.M.E. Church, she was an active member of the Youth Choir and the Music and Dramatic Guild's Junior Players. She was also a tutor in St. Paul's Saturday School Community Outreach Program, which was established by her parents. Kinaya attended Christ the King Elementary School where she excelled in academics and sports. She attended North Atlanta High School where she participated in a student exchange program in Mexico City. After graduating from North Atlanta in 1993 she matriculated at Spelman College where she majored in Spanish. Kinaya followed in her mother's footsteps and pursued educating children. She taught kindergarten for six years at Crème de la Crème Pre-School in Buckhead and in 2008, she joined the faculty at River's Edge Elementary School in Fayetteville, where she taught second grade. Kinaya received her Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Phoenix in 2009. Kinaya was a "fun-loving fashionista" who had good looks, slim figure, and an acute sense of style. She was an excellent cook and delighted in traveling; however, her greatest passion was teaching small children as her mother had done for so many years. Kinaya touched the lives of many with her infectious personality, compassion, and loyalty. A "daddy's girl," Kinaya loved her father and he adored her. While Kinaya did not live long, she lived well. The memory of her service and devotion will forever be cherished. Kinaya is survived by her father Richard Harris Byrd (Advis Dell Wilkerson-Byrd); two aunts, Frankie Harp and Marynette Watson (Harold Watson); one uncle, Willie James Byrd; and, a host of other cherished relatives, friends, and colleagues. Viewing today from 9 am - 9pm and the family will receive friends this evening from 6-8 pm at Murray Brothers Cascade Chapel, 1199 Utoy Springs Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30331 (Corner of Cascade Rd near I-285) (404) 349-3000. mbfh.com.

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

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution from Feb. 14 to Feb. 18, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Kinaya Byrd

Not sure what to say?





skylar

October 13, 2021

I was in her second grade class. She was one of the sweetest teachers....

Javon Ward

April 29, 2019

My name is Javon Ward, I was one of her students at RSE in her 2nd grade class and I still think about you daily

Yolanda Anderson

February 14, 2011

Still can't believe it......R.I.P you will always be remembered!

Mia Beasley

February 12, 2011

Mr and Mrs. Byrd,

Just thinking of you all on this day....
One of the great teachers taken from us too soon. We miss Ms. Byrds smile and kind spirit for all her students. You are missed.

The Beasley Family

S L

February 11, 2011

My heart is still broken. I miss you.

March 12, 2010

Kinaya,
This is Sandra Kay and I will always remember you as a good friend. Peace be with you!

Kay Ogburn

February 26, 2010

Mr. Byrd and family.

I just recently found out about our loss of a wonderful daughter,friend,teacher.etc. I worked with Kinaya for many years at Ceme de la Creme. We bonded immediately because of her charisma and passion for children. She had the best personality and the prettiest smile. I myself had many hard days at Creme or just school and she would be very motivating and comforting at all times. I am sure she told you we were going to open up our own daycare. She was going to be the curriculum director, she was just that good. The best teacher I have yet to meet. I miss her. I hate that I haven't talked with her since September 2009, but I will miss her and love her memory for life.

Kerry Trivers

February 26, 2010

Dear Mr. Byrd,
My daughter, Addie, was a student of Kinaya's in 2004-2005 at Creme. From the moment I met Kinaya, I recognized a that there was something special about her. So poised...so strong...so confident. I was elated that she was my daughter's pre-school teacher. She commanded incredible discipline but always with a calming presence. Without a doubt, I believe Kinaya's grace, her intelligence, her encouragement and ability to understand Addie from both a learning and social standpoint, helped my daughter mature at a time that was critical in her development. She will always be remembered by our family. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Kerry Trivers

Janie Tapp

February 23, 2010

Richard, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Over the years, you have been both proud of Kinaya and excited about her many accomplishments. Keep those memories close during these difficult times. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Polly Payne

February 22, 2010

Richard, I have just learned about Kinaya. You and your family will be in my prayers. I cannot imagine the loss you feel. Anyone who has ever known you can testify to her importance in your life. I know that with your strong faith you will get through this and that you know you will see her again. With deepest sympathy, Polly Allen Payne

Shabeba Mcdonald

February 22, 2010

Dear Mr. Richard Byrd and Family... My deeepest sympathy goes out to you and the entire family i am deeply sorry for your loss. Ms. Byrd was my daughters teacher this year at Rivers Edge. I loved the enthusiasim she displayed toward teaching she was a mothers dream and one of the bnest teachers my daughter has had she truely was dedicated to teaching and concerned about the progress and potential of each student. she will be missed greatly but never forgotten we love you Ms. Byrd~ R.I.P .......Shabeba and Tiannah

February 21, 2010

Dear Richard and Family,

My heart goes out to you in this time of sorrow. As a parent, I can't imagine the sense of loss you must feel. Stay strong and find comfort knowing that earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. The memories of Kinaya will be with you forever until you meet again in our Father's mansion.

BJ Carson, Decatur, GA
Retired SSA Employee

George Lester

February 20, 2010

Mr Byrd,

It is with a very heavy heart that I leave this note for you. My prayers are with you during what has to be a very difficult period of your life. It is not for us to question why, but it is only human. I pray that God will provide strength and comfort to you.

Yolanda Anderson

February 19, 2010

Hello Mr.Byrd, I have never met you but I feel like I know you because Kinaya has told me so many stories about you. We used to joke that we were related because I had the same family name as her. She was a great teacher who touched the lives of every one around her. I learned a lot from her which helped me become a better teacher. She was a great friend and her memories will live on forever.

Jonathan Sard

February 19, 2010

Mr. Byrd:
We would like to express our condolences to you and your family. Kinaya taught our daughter, Brooke, in pre-school and Brooke truly loved her. Brooke couldn't wait to get to school each morning just to see her. She had a special spirit and a special way of connecting with people that few people possess. Our family is so thankful to have known her.

Jonathan and Karen Sard

Michael Milan

February 19, 2010

today I can't talk without choking up, thinking about Kinaya. I am really going to miss you.

valerie bailey

February 19, 2010

A Prayer For You
May you find strength in knowing God's watching over you- Have faith and trust in his gentle love care because God will always be there for you. May God be with you.

February 19, 2010

I am so sad to hear of the news that a teacher from my school has died. I am very sad and my prayers are with Ms. Byrd's class, my school's teachers, and most of all her family. Pray and ask God to touch your hearts and give you peace. Amani Clanton, REES

Kirt Johnson

February 19, 2010

Mr. Byrd. My name is Kirt Johnson & i've known Kinaya for a long time through my best friend Anthony. After years of not seeing her, i saw her at Anthony's grandmother's wake because she came to show support. We talked for a long time that evening. Anthony had dinner with her about 3 weeks ago. I am so sorry for your loss as i have just realized that the person that i saw on news & in the paper was the same person that i considered a friend. Just a beautiful soul.

Helen Miller

February 19, 2010

R.I.P.

Mary Mattox-Maddox

February 19, 2010

To The Byrd Family
ou are in my prayer daily, I too have sat where you are now losing my only child in much the same way. GOD is too wise and too kind to make a mistake although it hurts so bad at the present but know that"Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal." May God Continue To Hold You And Keep You In His Loving Arms.

Kai Stenson

February 19, 2010

When you feel like falling apart look to God, he will hold you togehter. When you need that extra something to help you go on look to God, he will give you memories. Look to God for strength through this time and forever. Kinaya is home now! Take your memories and use them as a stepping stone to a brighter day.
Class of 93. Kai

Cherrie Chamblee-Hernandez

February 19, 2010

Mr. Byrd, I have always cherished Kinaya and your family. I often think about the countless days of playing in the backyard, playing school in the magnolia tree, and riding circles around the driveway with our big wheels. Kinaya has and always will be my best friend and my heart goes out to you and all that you've been through. Please know that my prayers are with you and the family. Kinaya was true friend and a wonderful person. I will always cherish the years we had together.

Dalentina Robertson

February 18, 2010

Mr. Byrd,

Kinaya I worked together in Clayton County. She was dedicated to the students and she was a dynamic teacher. The time we spent working together albeit short will always be cherished for her positive outlook for addressing each situation.

May God be with you and your family during this difficult time.

Deepest Sympathy,

Ms. Russell

February 18, 2010

Byrd Family,
I am in tears as I write these words for a person I never knew. I felt like I knew Kinaya only because I met her fiance once. As I can see Kinaya was a loving person. She had a beautiful smile that touches the heart of everyone that she came across. She touches my heart just from looking at her photo on line. I hope that her family and friends will always remember her for her smiles and all the lives that she touches. Kinaya was a one of a kind. Her work here on earth is done. The Lord had better plans for her.We are not going to mourn her death,we are going to celebrate the wonderful life she once had because heaven has gain an angel. On behalf of myself and the people of New York we would like to send our deepest condolences to the Byrd Family. Our prayers are with her family.

Please take a moment to read this peom:

When I come to the end of the road,
and the sun has set for me.
I want no rites in a gloom-filled room.
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little—but not too long,
and not with your head bowed low.
Remember the love that was once shared.
Miss me, but let me go.

For this is a journey we all must take, and each must go alone.
It’s all a part of the master’s plan, a step on the road to home.
When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know.
Bear your sorrow in good deeds. Miss me, but let me

February 18, 2010

There is comfort in friendship, hope in prayer, peace in love. Sharing in your sorrow with love and friendship.

The Ervin Family; Fred, Flory, Darrel, and Shana

Michael Milan

February 18, 2010

An angel has gone home to watch over us. Kinaya is a beautiful young woman inside and out. Her infectious smile I will never forget. Mr. Richard, my prayers and thoughts are with you.

Smith

February 18, 2010

Byrd Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that she is now resting in God's memory with the wonderful hope of being restored to like at a time when sickness and death will be no more. Job 14:14,15

Kristin Lindsey and Joe Pegnia

February 18, 2010

Thank you, Kinaya, for being such a wonderful teacher for our daughter, Sophie. Your love of teaching and of our daughter were beautiful gifts. We cherish your memory and hope that your family finds comfort in thoughts of you and knowledge of all the lives you made better by being in them.

Glenavary Rasheed

February 18, 2010

Richard, I shall always cherish our conversations about our children and their growth! Your daughter was a smart little girl, and grew to become a beautiful, smart, and productive woman, just like her Mom....She was born to become a teacher, one who had the patience to work with children. She enjoyed what she did, and she was VERY confident in her ability to help each child thrive and reach his/her full potential. I'm certain that she left her mark with each of her students.

I'm sure that she will be remembered as one of those "teachers who taught with a purpose". I certainly hope that you know how much she was loved and respected. Our family wish to extend our deepest sympathy to you and other members of your family in this tragic loss.

God Bless and Keep you!

Glenavary Rasheed
USDOE/OCR/Region IV
Atlanta, Ga.

Gloria Ridgell

February 18, 2010

To the family:

We are deeply saddened for your loss, we only meet your daughter once at our niece birth party, but we remember her smile and her kindness. Our prayers are with your entire family.

Gloria Ridgell, Pamela Williams, Selena Cortez

Cassandra Davis

February 18, 2010

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Pamela Raven-White

February 18, 2010

Kinaya was an intern for me at the Atlanta-Fulton County Treatment Plant and was a beautiful person both inside and out…may her soul rest in peace.

Daisy McClarty

February 18, 2010

Richard and Family,

I did not get to know your daughter as an adult, but I remember her quite vividly as her mother and I often shared stories about our children during her formative years. Leah and I were sorors, classmates at both CAU and GSU as well as fellow principals in APS. I know that as you grieve now you will cherish all the beautiful memories of Kinaya. Please accept my sincere condolences and my prayer that the love of God and His wisdom will bring you Comfort and sustain you in the days to come.

Gladys Preston - Glenn

February 18, 2010

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010

Anita Hunnicutt

February 18, 2010

Our prayer and sympathy is extended to the Byrd family. We can remember her smiling face as she dance at the last Annual Conference in 2009 at St. Paul A. M. E. Church. From her AME Family,
WMS workers,
Sis. Annie Mason and Sis. Anita Hunnicutt

Sister Jean Liston

February 18, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you very specially, Mr. Byrd. May God give you comfort and heal your broken heart.
Sister Jean Liston, GNSH
Principal - Christ the King School - 1976-1988

Sandra Dixon

February 18, 2010

I did not personally know Kinaya, but my neice and Kinaya were cousins. My heart goes out to the family & friends of Kinaya. May GOD bless you all and keep you in his care. Kinaya's brief life touched so many in a positive way ~ please know that GOD has a place for Kinaya in heaven.

February 18, 2010

Richard, your family (Rommie, Charlotte & Angela) are so very sorry for your loss. Words cannot explain how we felt when we heard the news. Even though we cannot be with you at this time--know that we care and love you very much. We pray for the Holy Spirit to bring you the peace that surpasses all understanding in Christ. Love the Byrds in Pittsburgh and College Park

February 18, 2010

Richard and Dell
We are so very sorry to hear of your lost of sweet Kinaya. The last time I talked to Kinaya it was at a June/2009 Summer School meeting at my school.She was just as charming as ever. Now, she is with her loving mother in Heaven.I pray that the Lord will always help you to cherish your most precious memories of her.
Carlos L. and Kathy W. Reese
St. Paul AME Church

Krista Agee

February 18, 2010

Heaven has truly gained an angel with Kinaya Byrd. Her presence will always be felt at River's Edge Elementary School. She dedicated her life to teaching her students and helping others. To the Byrd family, take great comfort in knowing that Kinaya accomplished so much in a short period of time. A job well done!

God does not ask about our ability, but our availability.
Anonymous

Betty Durham

February 18, 2010

My prayers are extended to the family of Miss Kinaya Byrd. I did not know Kinaya, but I understand that she grew up on the street where my brother lives. My neice, Sherrie, baby sat her when she was very young.

Being in the education field, I know this will be very hard for her little second grade darlings. My prayer is that,her family, friends, co-workers, students, and all who loved her will find comfort in knowing that, God makes no mistakes. He will comfort you and help you throught all of your trials and tribulations. Stay prayful and God will see you through this trial.

May God bless and comfort you. "Kinaya is now resting in peace with the Lord Jesus"

Shana Ervin

February 18, 2010

Uncle Richard, my heart is soooo heavy. I was out with some girl friends on this past Tuesday and we talked you up. Remembering how you and Aunt Leah and Kinaya (even though she was just a little girl) welcomed us into your home when we did our road trip to see Howard play Morehouse back in the late 80s. Aunt Leah cooked breakfast for us and we literally took over your house and you all had no problems with that. That was a GREAT time that I will NEVER forget! Remembering that time I knew that I needed to reach out to you soon. And it was the next day (yesterday, Wednesday) that my folks called to tell me about Kinaya. I also remembered one of my other visits to the ATL I took Kinaya, still as a little girl to the movies to see The Jungle Book. We had so much fun and as she got older we had a good time looking back on that outing. I will miss Kinaya's infectious smile. Please know I love you! I may be in DC but I am here for you!

Lexy Wells

February 18, 2010

My daughter Sydney and I knew Kinaya when she taught at Creme. I'm just devastated to hear this news. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers

Barbara Colzie

February 18, 2010

Richard;
My deepest sympathy to you& your family.Earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal.
Barbara Colzie & Family

Donnie Corbett

February 18, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Jean Daniel-Massey

February 18, 2010

Richard,
I am very sorry for your loss. I didn't know your daughter, however as an educator and mother. I deeply feel your pain, and so do her students. Stay strong in the Lord as you have been always. HE (the Lord) promised to be your comforter.

Cordelia Hammonds

February 18, 2010

Mr. Byrd-
My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to Your Family during this difficult time. Kinaya was a wonderful friend and classmate; and will be greatly missed by her students, friends, old classmates and Family.

She is remembered best for her beauty, intelligence and fun-loving spirit.

Sincerely,
Cordelia Hammonds and Hammonds'Family

February 18, 2010

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Evangelist Corlissa Taylor

February 18, 2010

Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot Heal. May the Peace of God comfort you during this time

Brian Price

February 17, 2010

Mr Byrd,

Kinaya and I were friends and classmates at North Atlanta High School. I had the opportunity to meet you and your wife once, (I was so nervous) but in that brief interaction I realized where Kenya got her poise and grace. Your daughter was such a truly remarkable and beautiful person. She had a smile that would light up a room. In your time of loss I Pray the GOD gives you peace beyond all understanding and that you’re comforted by HIS grace and mercy.

My deepest sympathies

February 17, 2010

My prayers are extended to Kinaya's family & students. I did not know her, but this tragedy has touched me deeply both as a human being as an educator. I pray that her soul is at rest & that there is a joyous reunion between Kinaya & her mother. God Bless.

Cherri McKinney

February 17, 2010

This is a wound that only God can heal. I believe to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Ms. Byrd Thanks for being you. You will be missed. Your students love you.

Kathy Lassiter

February 17, 2010

I only met Ms. Byrd four months ago. It was very evident how much she loved her students and what a passion she had for teaching them. When I visit River's Edge, I will miss her smile and her warm personality. May God bless you and give you peace during this time and in the days to come. God Bless!

Candice Lester

February 17, 2010

Dear Mr. Byrd,
Words cannot express the depth of shock and sadness that I feel in the loss of Kinaya. While I did not know her as well as others, I have fond memories of us playing as little girls.

You have always been very supportive of me and my family, in good times and in times of sorrow. Please know that you have my deepest condolences, and are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort and strength in the Lord during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Jerona Knox

February 17, 2010

I was a student of Mrs. D. Byrd in the second grade at Cleveland Avenue. Kinaya would come in with her on the off days because the private school and public school scheduled differed. We remained friends through North Atlanta High School and some college. We lost touch in our adulthood but I supported her at her mom's life celebration service. I know she made a difference in many lives with her smile and dedication and touched everyone she encountered in a special way. ...Gone too soon.. My prayers are with you Mr. Byrd and your family for strength and courage to live on. Until we meet again my friend. Always remember live is precious and to make everyday count.

Angela Leslie

February 17, 2010

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

February 17, 2010

Uncle Richard,
We are praying for you and may God comfort your heart and may his peace always be with you.
With Love, Minister Lor Rogers and Family (Denise), Covington, GA.

Staci Patterson Rucker

February 17, 2010

Mr. Byrd,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family on the loss of Kinaya. Kinaya and I were childhood friends through our mothers' work in Atlanta Public Schools. It is so interesting to read the many kind words and fond memories that people have about Kinaya as an adult because that is exactly how I remember her as my childhood friend: smart, creative, thoughtful, kind, and fun. May God provide you, your family and Kinaya's friends comfort during this very difficult time.

Rosalind Boldon

February 17, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Dr. & Mrs Phil Wiltz

February 17, 2010

February 17, 2010
Our prayers go out to you and your entire family for the terrible loss of your only daughter.
May your memories of her soon bring you everlasting comfort.

Shamika Miller

February 17, 2010

To say the very least I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Kinaya. She was my son's 2nd grade teacher last year, & I have had the pleasure of meeting with her on several occassions. We've had countless phone conversations, which allowed me to see her true character. She was an extraordinary teacher & human being period in my opinion. Thank you Mr. Byrd for raising such an awesome young woman she was a definite blessing to my family. She went over & beyond to help my son get back on track after my divorce, & I'm very grateful for her insight & willingness to help. My prayers are with you & your family. May God comfort you & yours during your time of mourning & may He give you beauty for ashes. God Bless.

Jeremy Satterwhite

February 17, 2010

My prayers go out to Richard & Dale and the entire family. In times such as these hold on to God's unchanging hand. I'm sorry that I can't be there to show my love and support, but I will lift you up in prayer.
With love,
Jeremy D. Satterwhite & Ernestine Mattox

Norvella Holland

February 16, 2010

My Dearest Kinaya, upon moving to atlanta in 2001 you were the first friend i met. You are truly all of the things everyone has said about you. For us these are sad moments for Heaven they are rejoicing.God has picked an angel. You have left us so soon but with everlasting memories. John 6;47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life... until we meet again thanks for being my friend.

Barbara Willingham

February 16, 2010

Dear Richard and Dale:

I was shocked to hear of Kinaya's demise. Upon meeting her many years ago, I was impressed with her meek and ladylike appearance. I know that you loved her very much. Stay strong and Dale, I feel confident that you and Richard together will get through this.

Barbara Willingham

February 16, 2010

Dear Richard, I am deeply saddened by the loss of your daughter. Upon meeeting her once, I can still remember her almost shy demeanor. Please stay strong and it is so good that you have a wife to help you through this.

David H. & Maurita

February 16, 2010

Hi this is Maurita Sutton-Brown residing in Texas with my family and Kinaya was a cousin of mine, although we knew eachother as little children, the death of a family member is still sorrow to ones heart. My prayers are with my family and may God comfort and guide each person's life she touched.

Joe Redding

February 16, 2010

I am deeply saddened by such a tragic loss. Working with Kinaya at Creme de la Creme was indeed a memorable time. I can still see her beautiful face greeting me in the mornings or as we had Lead Teacher meetings. She was loved so much by her students and their families and her coworkers. My prayers go out to you all. A couple of scriptures that come to mind that always help me through difficult times are Proverbs 3:5 and Romans 8:28.

Zakiyya Whittle

February 16, 2010

It seems as if Kinaya was taken away from us way to soon. However; God needed another angel in heaven. Kinaya's laughter and smile will truly be missed by the students and staff at River's Edge. She has left an everlasting impression on her students and those that worked with her. May God bless the Byrd family. May God give you a sense of peace that surpasses all understanding. Kinaya's REES family is here anytime you need us :-)

lori beasley

February 16, 2010

I use to work with Kinaya at Creme she was a great teacher. She loved working with kids. She was a blessing to many young lives. My prayers goes to the family.

Erica Glover, (REES)

February 16, 2010

"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow."
My prayers are with your family and friends during this time of great sorrow.
(Revelation 21: 3,4; Isaiah 25:8)

David Butterworth

February 16, 2010

Our most sincere condolences on your tragic loss. We will keep you in our prayers.

February 16, 2010

I worked with Byrd as a second grade teacher at REES. We were patio neighbors. I will miss your bubbly personality, bubbly laugh and those afternoon chats.You are God's angel now and what a beautiful angel you are. Thanks for sharing a part of your life with me, if only for a short time.
Martrella Nelson

Nacaria Hearns

February 16, 2010

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Dr. Marcus Jackson

February 16, 2010

I worked with Ms. Byrd during summer school the past two years. One of the sweetest and most dedicated teachers I have ever met. She will be greatly missed. May God conitnue to comfort us all in this time of sorrow!

Cathy Brown

February 16, 2010

I knew Kinaya for all but a month of the 6 years she worked at Creme de la Creme. I had the honor and pleasure of working with her in the classroom. She was a dedicated and loving professional who took her job as a teacher seriously. She impacted the lives of many children and parents. She will be one teacher that will never be forgotten. Our lives were made richer by her presence, but now Heaven has acquired a glorious angel. Mr. Byrd, I met you once several years ago at Creme. I am truly sorry and saddened by the loss of your beloved Kinaya. You were her rock. As the lenten season begins, I will keep you and Kinaya in my prayers. The only comfort I can offer you is knowing she is with God now.

Ebonie Jenkins

February 16, 2010

I met Kinaya back in 2005, she was always upbeat and happy. Everyday I looked forward to her beautiful smile and her kind words of wisdom. She was truley an angel and words can not express how much i will miss her.

C Y

February 16, 2010

February 16, 2010
I am so sorry for the lost of Ms.K. Byrd. Everytime I saw her she was in her zone and focused on her students. I love her so much more knowing she was a member of YPD its something that sticks with you and molds you into a child of God!! (You will be missed at REES)

February 16, 2010

To the family of Kinaya,

My deepest condolences and prayers go out to you. I will always remember how she loved her students here at River's Edge Elementary School. May you find peace in knowing that, even God picks a flower.

Heather Hardrick, Fayetteville, Georgia

Bolden

February 16, 2010

My deepest condolences to the family.Know that "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning" Psalm 30.5. Ms. Byrd will be missed.

Mr/Mrs Joseph Ramey

February 16, 2010

We know you've suffered a loss and that nothing we could say or do is going to immediately take away your sadness. And yet, knowing God's love and word will never fell, trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. He will provide sufficient strength during this process. You and the family our in our continued prayers.

Denise Hodgson

February 16, 2010

During the 6 years Kinaya spent at Creme de la Creme Preschool, she touched so many lives. The parents, children and teachers here are devistated. She was loving, smart, beautiful and kind. It was our privilege to know her. Our sympathy and love go to her family.

Claudine Loyd

February 16, 2010

Although I only knew MS. Byrd a short while at River's Edge, even I was touched by her kindness.From experience, I know that only time and prayer get us through times like these so my prayers go out for the family, friends and others.
Claudine Loyd - River's Edge Elementary-K-teacher

Patrice Gamble

February 16, 2010

I only knew Kinaya for a small amount of time as a former co-worker at Creme de la Creme. And the little time that I knew her she was always smiling and cheerfully talking with other co-workers. I send my deepest regards to her family and friends and especially the children at River Edge Elementary. God bless you all.

Michelle Smith-Bryan

February 16, 2010

Mr. Richard....I send my love. Kinaya and I grew up together and she was a beautiful person. I know Mrs. Byrd is rejoicing and you have another angel smiling down on you. To her class and friends, stay strong. MAy God be with all who knew and loved her.

Craig & Karen Davis

February 16, 2010

I only new Kinaya and met her through our daughter a second grade teacher at the same school. She has touched many hearts including our daughter's. She will be missed in many ways. She is an Angle of God's now but will always been an Angle to us.

Jayson Jenkins

February 16, 2010

Mr. Byrd, Dale,
There is not a way I can formulate words to allow you all to know how deeply, deeply sorry I am to hear of the loss of a fantastic, beautiful woman.. She was truly a beacon of light for me in so many instances over the time we spent together. I TRULY, TRULY loved the person she was..Mr. Byrd she loved and adored you so very much and was so happy you were finally going to be taken care of by your new wife. You And her late mother raised a blessing to so many peoples children, and her life was devoted to those children she taught at every stop..She expected nothing less than what you demanded of her from each student and that was greatness..Know that I appreciate all we shared over the years, and truly was touched by an angel...I am so glad we (her and I) recently spoke about life and the love in it.. My deepest sympathy in this troubling time. May GOD hold you both and comfort you...

February 16, 2010

I remember Kinaya as a little girl, the joy of her mother and father. It's hard to believe that this has happened. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Sue Phibbs Claxton

Tomika Courtney

February 16, 2010

I have known Kinaya or "Byrd" as I always called her since being here at REES. She had a beautiful and infectious smile that always brightened my day! We will miss her greatly on the halls of REES but I will forever hold in my heart every memory and every thought of her. We will meet again someday friend in paradise but until then I hold you close in my heart!
God's Love!

Rhonda Robinson-Heard

February 16, 2010

To the Byrd family I didn't know Ms. Byrd, but sitting here reading all of the condolences I feel as if I knew her. My prayers goes out to her father and entire family during your time of sorrow. May the memories you have of her live on in your lives. Please know that earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal.

Rhonda Robinson-Heard

February 16, 2010

My heart is broken and goes out to her father and entire family, for such a tragic lost. I'm sitting here at work reading all of the condolences for Ms. Byrd; and I feel as if I knew her personally. Mr. Bryd please know that earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal.

Joyce Kelly

February 16, 2010

Richard Byrd,
My prayers are with you and your family in this time of grief. I thank God for letting me meet and see Kinaya and you at our family gatherings. When I subbed this year at River Edge Elementary School, I went by her classroom to say hello.Remember the good times and treasure them. May God bless you and keep you in his holy care. I am Samuel and Barbara Lightfoot's counsin.

The Donahues

February 16, 2010

We were very saddened to learn of the loss of Kinaya. She was a wonderful teacher to our daughter Shannon at Creme de la Creme, making her transition to kindergarten an easy one. Her smile and bubbly personality just lit up every room. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Shanna Weatherspoon

February 16, 2010

Ms. Byrd was my son's second grade teacher this year. The news has been very hard to grasp. She encouraged my son to thrive for excellence. Wishing you a peaceful farewell....

February 16, 2010

Absence from the body, presence with the Lord. This tragic loss of my Spelman sister takes me to God's word, and His promises. May Kinaya's family and the Spelman community find peace in knowing that every now and then, even God picks a flower! Peace/Blessings. Valerie, Spelman '88

Marilyn Stephenson

February 16, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in the tragic loss of your beloved daughter. My God console you during your bereavement.

February 16, 2010

My deepest condolences and prayers go out to family and friends of Kinaya. You are in my heart.
Stephanie Hill

Sherida Johnson

February 16, 2010

I worked with Kinaya at Creme de la Creme in Buckhead. We enjoyed many laughs during the summer programs there. I am shocked and deeply saddened by this tragedy. She always spoke so highly of her father and the sacrifices he made for her. I will continue to pray for him and the entire family.

C Johnson-Smith

February 15, 2010

My heart is broken by such a tragic loss and goes out to her family and her children at REES.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

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How to support Kinaya's loved ones
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