Arthur Byrd

1935 - 2024

Arthur Edward Byrd was born on September 12, 1935, in Rienzi, to Thomas Henry Byrd and Ellie Velma Hearn. He passed from this earthly life to his heavenly home at the age of 89 on Saturday, November 9, 2024, while at home.

Russell M. Nelson said, "The only way to take sorrow out of death is to take love out of life." This statement sums up the pain and sorrow felt by his family because of his love. Arthur was many things--husband, daddy, Papaw, uncle, boss, and friend. We are quite certain that Papaw was his favorite title. He truly loved his family. This love was often shown by giving stern advice and by rarely holding back from sharing his opinion. However, that love was there many times given silently, but in an undeniable way. He was true and faithful to striving to follow Christ's example in all he did. He served in many capacities throughout his lifetime of faithful membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Best described as a "worker," He owned Roy's Feeds of Corinth for many years alongside his son, where his grandsons were also taught important lessons under his direction. He also retired from Brown Shoe Company. He was a farmer and no job was ever given half-measure. Anyone who talked with him readily learned that he was especially fond of his gardens, fruit trees, and raising livestock-especially pigs. He was constantly working like he was "putting out a fire." He set an example of hard work and dedication in every aspect of his life. His great-grandchildren loved to be given candy from his jar, which was always at hand beside his recliner, and they knew just how to twist his arm for anything. While in his recliner, he was rarely seated alone when any grands or great-grands were making their frequent visits.

He is survived by his precious wife of 68 years – Donnie Euvon Byrd and his loving children Sharon Byrd and Stevie (Beth) Byrd; three grandchildren, Laura (Andrew) Finch, Michael (Charity) Byrd, and Steven (Hanna) Byrd; and nine great-grandchildren: Carson Lash, Joey Beth Finch, Lydia, Lincoln, Henry, Hattie Jane, Smith, Canaan, & Darsie Ruth Byrd all of Booneville.

He is also survived by a brother, Muncie Gale Hayes (Margaret) of Tupelo and 2 half-sisters Bonnie Williamson and Nina Ann Barfield (James) as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his sisters – Lettie Catherine Bruce (Paul Dale) and Betty Jane Yarbrough (Billy); half-brothers Leroy Byrd and Russell Byrd; and a grandson-in law Lance Lash.

Visitation was held in the Booneville Chapel of Kesler Funeral Home on Monday, November 11, 2024, from 5-8 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, with visitation beginning one hour prior. Burial will follow in the Mormon Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Michael Byrd, Steven Byrd, Brad Denson, Andrew Finch, Wesley Hayes, Joel Tittle, Paul Wood, Lincoln Byrd, and Carson Lash.

Honorary pallbearers will be his youngest great-grandsons Henry Byrd, Smith Byrd, and Canaan Byrd, as well as his nephews.

Condolences to the family may be made online at www.keslerfuneralhome.com