Reverend Kenneth Roy Byrd

1938 - 2025

Reverend Kenneth Roy Byrd

April 26, 1938 - July 16, 2025

Reverend Kenneth Roy Byrd, 87, of Hearne, Texas, went to be with his Lord on July 16, 2025, leaving a legacy of faith, kindness, and service to others. Born in Houston, Texas, on April 26, 1938, and raised there, Kenneth was the cherished son of Juel and Thelma Byrd, and a loving brother to six sisters and one brother, all deceased.

Kenneth began preaching at age 18 in Waller, Texas, a calling that would guide the rest of his life. He pursued higher education with determination, earning his Bachelor of Science degree from Southwestern Assemblies of God University and his Master of Divinity from Perkins School of Theology.

Kenneth touched countless lives as a pastor, including serving the Methodist churches in lola, Hearne, Calvert, and Gause. where he served his congregations with distinction, unwavering dedication, sharing the love of Christ through his preaching, pastoral care, and humble leadership. His deep commitment to Jesus Christ and his compassionate spirit touched all who knew him, offering comfort in times of sorrow and guidance in times of need. Through his ministry, he nurtured spiritual growth, strengthened the bonds of community, and left a lasting legacy of faith and service. Known for his humor, warmth, and professionalism, he was beloved by congregants and colleagues alike. Friends recall his selfless spirit, kind heart, and unwavering faith - a truly godly man and an amazing pastor.

Outside the pulpit, Kenneth was a passionate entrepreneur and animal lover, founding and operating Equitax in Houston and establishing Handfuls On Purpose Enterprise (H.O.P.E.), a nonprofit animal shelter in Hearne. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Kenneth found joy in many pursuits playing golf, hunting, showing horses, flying planes, driving his old Ford coup Henry, and always spreading his love for God. He is survived by his devoted wife, Janna Byrd and his beautiful blended family: daughter, Tanyal Parnell; son, Blake Byrd; son, Scott (wife Terri) Howell; son, Ken (wife Kelley) Howell; 10 grandkids; 16 great-grandkids; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

A service to celebrate Kenneth's remarkable life will be held at the Gause Methodist Church on July 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. After the service, family and friends will walk to the Gause Cemetery for the interment. The service will be livestreamed on Gause Methodist Church YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@GauseMethodistChurch/streams.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Handfuls On Purpose Enterprise Animal Shelter, (H.O.P.E.), PO Box 545, Hearne, TX 77859, or a charity of your choice, ensuring Kenneth's spirit of compassion lives on.