Barbara Allen Byrd

Barbara Allen Byrd, 84, passed away on August 16, 2024, in Weatherford, Texas. Born on July 8, 1940, in Washington, DC, Barbara was a lifelong educator and cherished member of her community.

Barbara dedicated over 30 years to teaching at Millsap ISD, where she left a lasting impact on her students, many of whom regarded her as their favorite teacher. Her educational journey included degrees from Texas Christian University and Tarleton State University, which fueled her passion for teaching and lifelong learning.

A true "Salt of the Earth" woman, Barbara embraced the country lifestyle on her family farm, where she found joy in gardening, cooking, and baking. Her hands were happiest in the dirt of her garden or when spending quality time with her family, especially her grandchildren, Abigail, Jack, and Dalton. Barbara's positive energy and welcoming manner made her a beloved figure, not only within her family but also across the wider community.

She is survived by her children, Carrie Kelley (Brent) and their children Abigail and Jack, Brenda Byrd, and David Byrd (and his son Dalton); her brother David Pace (Nhu and daughter Natalie); her sister Virginia Scheuweiler (Robert and their children Leah and MaryBeth), Beth Neumann (Jeff and their children Jill and Jared); and brother-in-law Jimmy Cartrette (children: Allen, Katie, and Stephen). Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Byrd, her sister Diana Cartrette, and her parents, Marjorie and Allen Pace.

In keeping with her wishes, Barbara requested no funeral service but rather that friends and family celebrate her life in their own special ways. True to her vocation, Barbara chose to donate her body to UNT for research, continuing to teach and inspire even posthumously.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the "Millsap Scholarship Fund" at Millsap ISD, 201 East Brazos, Millsap, TX 76066, in memory of Barbara Byrd. Her legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations through this fund, reflecting her lifelong commitment to education and community support.