Richard Byrd

RICHARD "PAPAW" BYRD, 72, of Huntington, West Virginia, passed away on March 5, 2026, in the same town where his life began. Rick built his life there, rooted in loyalty, faith, laughter, and deep love for his family and community. He was the son of the late Otis Lee Byrd and Hope Byrd. He is survived by his siblings David Byrd and Kaye Byrd and was preceded in death by his siblings Connie Byrd, Mark Byrd, and Steve Byrd.
A faithful church member, Rick was known for delivering beautiful closing prayers and for the deep baritone voice he brought to every hymn. He was also known as a fisherman, an enthusiastic animal impersonator, and the proud holder of every random fact known to man. Rick was a devoted husband to Paula (Plybon) Byrd for 55 years, a partnership built on loyalty, humor, and steadfast love. He is survived by his son, Richard Byrd II of Michigan, and his daughter, Billie (Byrd) Short and her husband Keith, of Columbus, Ohio. He was a beloved Papaw to his grandchildren Morgan Stephens-Nairn and her husband Paul, Molly Stephens, Maddox, Whitley, Rick, and Sabine. The family name "Lee," carried by his father, lives on in his great-grandson, Bodhi Lee. Rick will be remembered for his generosity, humor, faith, and steady love. We take comfort knowing he is home.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. by Pastor Doug Burdette on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at the Reger Funeral Chapel, Huntington. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Section of Dock's Creek Cemetery, Kenova, W.Va. Friends may call from 1 p.m. until service time on Sunday at Reger Funeral Home, Huntington.
Online condolences may be made at www.regerfh.com.