Gladys V. Byrd

In the quiet embrace of a fading autumn day, we gather to honor the life of Gladys Virginia Byrd, who departed this life at the age of 91, leaving in her wake a tapestry woven with threads of love, laughter, and kindness. Born on June 10, 1933, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, Gladys nurtured not only the soil of her cherished garden but also the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Gladys was a radiant embodiment of grace and warmth, her spirit akin to the vibrant blooms she so lovingly cultivated. Each flower in her garden whispered the secrets of her gentle soul, a sanctuary where she found solace and serenity. Yet, it was in the company of her family that her heart flourished most, and she reveled in the moments shared with them—each laugh, each story, each embrace, a testament to the unbreakable bonds of love she forged.

Surviving her are her devoted daughters, Norma Jean Hockaday (predeceased Carlton Wayne, Sr.), Cheryl (Rail) Walker, Fredica (Gail) Shannon, and her youngest, Maria Cox. Along with her sons, Glennis (Larry) Byrd, daughter-in-law Mary Byrd (husband preceded in death Bermon Earl Byrd), and Rodney Byrd (wife Kenya Byrd). She is also survived by a cherished group of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, whose laughter now carries a bittersweet echo of the joy that Gladys once shared so freely with them. The void left by her beloved husband, Cephus Byrd, who preceded her on this journey, weighs heavily on her heart, a sorrow that lingered in the quiet moments of her life.

A woman of boundless laughter and generous spirit, Gladys possessed a rare gift for making others feel cherished and understood. Her compassionate words were like soft petals brushing against the soul, and her selfless actions inspired those fortunate enough to cross her path. She was a beacon of light, her laughter breaking through the clouds of despair, reminding us all that joy is found in the simplest of moments.

As we gather to celebrate her extraordinary life, we reflect not only on the beautiful memories etched in our minds but also on the lasting impact she has had on our lives. Gladys Virginia Byrd will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will forever bloom within us, akin to the flowers and vegetables she tended with such devotion.

An internment service will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ Cemetery at 11:00 AM, where family and friends are invited to share their memories and honor a life beautifully lived.

Rest in peace, dear Gladys. Your love and laughter will continue to inspire us all, a legacy that will forever blossom in the gardens of our hearts.

—

Poem: Dear Momma

In a sacred garden where memories entwine,  
I stand here, dear Momma, with a heart so heavy, divine.  
Your embrace, like a shelter, your spirit so bright,  
Though you’ve left this world, your love is our light.  

With laughter like sunshine that filled our days,  
You welcomed me in with your warm, gentle ways.  
In moments of joy and whispers of sorrow,  
You showed me that hope can bloom bright tomorrow.  

“Fear not,” you would say, “for I’m always near,”  
In the echoes of laughter, in each falling tear.  
Your faith was my fortress, a beacon so clear,  
Guiding us gently through the shadows of fear.  

As we gather together, my heart starts to ache,  
With memories of you, in each smile and each break.  
Your kindness, a river that endlessly flows,  
In the warmth of your smile, my deepest love grows.  

So let us remember, as we gather in grace,  
The love that you offered, the light in this place.  
Though the tears may fall, and our hearts feel the strain,  
Your spirit will rise, in joy and in pain.  

In the dance of our family, your spirit will twirl,  
In the laughter of children, your love will unfurl.  
So here’s to you, dear Momma, as we honor your name,  
Your heart is our compass, your truth is our flame.  

With every soft tear, I feel you so near,  
In the whispers of love, through the sorrow and cheer.  
Though the void feels so deep without your embrace,  
Your legacy lives on, in our hearts, in this place.

- Written by Rodney and Kenya Byrd and Dr. Mark E. Bailey

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