David Byrd Obituary
David was the second of six children born to Ester Yarbrough and David Byrd Sr. His siblings included Mary "Mae" Anderson, Edna Ross, Yvonne "Penny" Alfton, Lillie Simmons, and Mildred "Mickey" Yarbrough, with Lillie and Edna surviving him.
In 1970, David met Alma Elaine Parker (April 22, 1942 - October 7, 1997), and they married in 1972. Together, they had four children: David Nathaniel Byrd, Daniel Nigel Byrd, Dawnene Nicole Byrd, and Allayna Elizabeth Byrd. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Desairee Elaine Byrd, Trinity Everheart, Joshua Rodriguez, Khalil Lefko, Evelyn Elizabeth McMillan, Lauren Margaret McMillan, Owen Augustus McMillan, and Kendall James Byrd. He also shared meaningful connections with Bryan McMillan, Rhonda Kelly, and Linsey Thompson Byrd.
David served honorably in the United States Navy for five years, working in supply and safety communications while contributing to active missions. After his service, he returned to Chicago and built a career at the Sherwin-Williams emulsion plant in Roseland, where he worked for 44 years and earned a reputation for dedication and excellence.
Following his retirement and the passing of his wife in 1997, David devoted himself to caregiving and supporting those in need. He was a beloved presence in the communities of Matteson, Richton Park, and Park Forest, Illinois. A man of faith, he was a devout churchgoer who attended Cornerstone Christian Center in Chicago Heights for over a decade.
David will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to family and community. His wisdom, storytelling, and warmth left a lasting impact on all who knew him. His legacy lives on through his children and future generations.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Todd Rigas
March 16, 2025
My deepest condolences, Dan.
Daniel
February 26, 2025
For my Dad
Locomotive
Into the gust from the winds
Streamlined the railyard farm paths
As the train approaches vibration on the ground beneath his feet moved & hissed
The steam from the engine fogged & cleared
His father conducted him
Rural Athens Alabama all the way to Chicago Illinois
Slightly past midnight the train stopped around 12:12
I exited on to the platform awoke from your bed
Departed you began your journey without any passengers
I've arrived now in life as a conductor for your legacy
The moonlight faded into the stars that became sparkling tears into dust that now rest on four mantles In Ash
Your children hear the horns
These Rails bend & wind like turnstiles
Steer me father conductor , straight into the future where time always lives
Your final destination
Where we began in family
Checking the tickets
As people board into journeys
From this point without direction
No guidance walking through cars away from the caboose
We've become engineers
For every direction
North, South, East ,West
The four corners opening in doorways on platforms
On railyards
That you created
As I've stowed Away to find out
Where you've gone
I see the gates of Heaven
Without tunnels
Opening embracing you
Last exit
Freedom awaits
Your son Danny
Kate Saunders
February 19, 2025
A wonderful man who raised wonderful children. May his memory be a blessing to those who are missing him today and always
Chris Mayden
February 19, 2025
Mr. Byrd took me to church.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Pamela Wade
February 19, 2025
Uncle David was known for his unwavering dedication to his family. And, he loved the Lord. He had a very generous spirit and would extend help to anyone he could. I will always remember his kindness toward me throughout the years. I will miss him, however, his caring demeanor and generosity will never be forgotten. He is rejoicing i
heaven with the Lord and his dear wife, Alma. Praying for my dear cousins and our family.
Theda Anderson
February 19, 2025
To my beloved Uncle David who gave love and laughter to everyone he came in contact with. We will miss your smile, jokes, and encouraging words but they will forever be in our hearts. I especially will missed the phone calls and you saying I was your favorite niece always asking me how old was I and telling me how proud you were of me.I know You are still smiling in heaven with Aunt Toni.granny,my mom,aunt Penny and Mickey n your nephew Trevor to my cousin David, Danny,Dawnneen, Allyna contining to pray for peace and comfort knowing God will supply all of your needs. Love you all Cousin Theda
Antoinette McGinnis
February 19, 2025
My deepest condolences and prayers go out to your family
Rodney Branch
February 19, 2025
God Bless you Mr. Byrd. Praying for your eternal Peace
Toni Byrd-Byrd
February 19, 2025
Uncle Dave (my cousin) was one of my dad´s best friends (Robert L.Byrd Sr.) Uncle Dave was one of a kind. He was as such a family man and showed love to however he meet. A great historian of the family. He loved Aunt Alma and his children. He will truly be missed. To the children and grandchildren, just know we are praying for you all.
Lillie Malone
February 19, 2025
Praying for the Byrd family. LILLIE MALONE
Dan Byrd
February 19, 2025
Welcome & thank you for viewing & honoring my father . In addition as a personal message I'd just like to say in life you brought happiness to everyone you encountered & I chose to ensure you receive the love matched back to you in every way in your legacy here by sharing stories & celebrating the highlights remembered through family to continue to keep your spirit alive always.
Your son
Danny
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Make a Donation
in David Byrd's name
How to support David's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor David Byrd's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
