Cheryl Sue Byrd

Cheryl Sue (Garnes) Byrd was born on May 25, 1948 in the rural town of Derby, Ohio. Deaconess Cheryl Byrd peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 at the Taylor Springs Health Campus. She was raised in a family with a strong work ethic.
Following her 1966 graduation from Westfall High School she moved to Columbus, Ohio where she lived with her older sister Francena. Living in the city she was afforded the opportunity to attend church regularly. Once she accepted Christ her desire to study the Word and evangelize continued until her passing. It was in Columbus she was introduced to her husband, Richard, by his older brother. Following their marriage she paused working for a number of years to rear their children. They recently celebrated 55 years of marriage. Later, entering the workforce, she held various positions at Bank One, Limited Credit Services, and Marshall Fields.
When the City Center Mall closed, Deaconess Byrd willingly took on the position as childcare provider for her grandsons. The foundation of her life was built on her dedication to knowing and serving The Lord. She served as a deaconess for 40 years, serving also as Superintendent of Sunday School, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher, and was active in the Evangelism Ministry and Music Ministry, singing in both the Jubilee Chorus and Senior Choir.
Preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Aldora Garnes, sister Francena El-Amin, and nephews Dahomey El-Amin and Douglas Byrd.
She leaves to cherish her memory: husband Richard; children Neilston (Christina) Byrd and Silvina (Jerry) Walker, and 6 grandchildren. She is also survived by brothers Harold (Julia) Garnes, Kermit (Margaret) Garnes, and sister Lynn Ragland; sisters-in-law Mary Jane Byrd and Yvonne Pate, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.