James Harrison Byrd

James Harrison “Jimmy” Byrd, 80, made his entrance into the world on June 5th, 1944. He was the son of proud parents, Charles "Red" and Alta "Nita" Byrd, and went home to be with our Lord and Savior on Tuesday December 10, 2024, at his home in Columbus, Texas.

James was a retired truck driver and loved traveling in his rig all over the nation. He had many experiences and was always telling stories about his travels. James enjoyed fishing in the river. He was strategic in running his trot lines and looked forward to checking them for his next big catch. James also appreciated a good western book and movies, to boot. He truly adored his family and was affectionately known by his great grandchildren as “Old grandpa." James was loved and will be truly missed by all those who were blessed to know him.

James was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Billy Ray Byrd. 

Those left to cherish his memory are his three children and their spouses, James Allen Byrd (Stephanie) of North Zulch, Texas, Troy Dewayne Byrd (Tasha) of Franklin, Texas and Pamela Denise Smelscer (Brett) of China Springs, Texas; eleven grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; two sisters, Patsy Ann Byrd of Houston, Texas and Linda Byrd-Solis (Dale) of Arlington, Texas; one nephew; four nieces; his chocolate lab and faithful companion, Choca and numerous other extended family and loving friends.

A funeral service, officiated by Pastor Olan Weaver, is scheduled for Saturday, December 14, 2024, and will be held at the Rock Prairie Baptist Church in North Zulch, Texas at 11 A.M. Burial will follow in the Rock Prairie Cemetery.

Pallbearers:  Caleb Byrd, Bentley Byrd, Bryce Byrd, Leslie "Les" Hester, Dale Solis, Kalyn Utz

Final arrangements for James Harrison Byrd are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.