Jonnie P. Byrd

Jonnie Paul Byrd, Sr.
June 26, 1939 – November 20, 2022
On November 20, 2022, our community lost a very special person. Not only was he a veteran, police officer, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and husband. He was a hero to many. Jonnie Paul Byrd Sr. departed our world to reunite with his siblings and mother.
Jonnie vowed to become a "self-made man" early in his life. He did so by joining the United States Army and serving in the 82nd Airborne for nearly a decade. An accomplished paratrooper, machine gunner and marksman, Jonnie completed well over forty jumps during the Vietnam War and served as a machine gunner throughout his tenure overseas.
Upon completing his service to our country, Jonnie dedicated the next chapter of his life to serving his community. He quickly worked his way through the ranks in the Laredo Police Department and eventually earned the title of Captain.
Jonnie is preceded in death by his brothers Heriberto H. Byrd Sr., Samuel Byrd, and Salvador Tristan. He is also preceded in death by his parents Isabel Byrd and Elijah L. Byrd.
He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Aida N. Byrd. She truly embraced what it means to be at one's side through sickness and in health, having been at her husband's side throughout his illness. Jonnie is also survived by his children Jessica P. Byrd (Juan Olguin), Jonnie P. Byrd Jr., Joseph P. Byrd (Vanessa), Brenda Martinez, Elizabeth Torres, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held in his honor on Monday, December 5, 2022 at 10:00 am at San Agustin Catholic Cathedral followed by a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps.
Funeral arrangements are by Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services, 1320 Trey Dr., Laredo, Texas 78041 (956) 723-3611. For your convenience, you may leave your condolences to the family online at www.freddickey.com