Carlus "Wayne" Byrd

Carlus "Wayne" Byrd, 28, of New Albany, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Born on August 13, 1997, Wayne was the son of Carl and Barbara (Abrams) Byrd. He was a graduate of New Albany High School, where he distinguished himself as an athlete on both the wrestling mat and the football field, graduating in the class of 2016.

Following his graduation, Wayne began a career at the Ford Motor Company - Kentucky Truck Plant, where he dedicated himself to his work. He was known for his interests, which included gaming and owning an impressive collection of knives and guns. He found happiness in riding his Harley Davidson and enjoyed taking drives in his cherished "square baby," and his 64' Impala.

Above all, Wayne held his family close to his heart. Along with his parents, he is remembered fondly by his fiancée, Desiree Meadors, and his daughters, Raylin and Victoria, who meant the world to him. He is also survived by his sister, Whitney Byrd, and her partner, Tanner Davis, his grandmothers, Vicky Byrd and Joann Shuman, his parents-in-law, Michael Nichelson and Kim Meadors, alongside numerous extended family members, close friends and his gaming buddies.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Carlus Wayne Byrd, Kenneth "Joe" Birkla, and Raymond Dowdle, as well as his uncle, Billy Mann.

Visitation will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions located at 3309 Ballard Lane, with continued visitation on Wednesday beginning at 9:00 a.m. A funeral service will honor Wayne’s life at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest privately at Edwardsville-Tunnel Hill Cemetery.