Gary Byrd

Gary Byrd, a cherished figure known for his warmth and creativity, passed away on August 2, 2025, in East Leroy, at the age of 79, following a courageous battle with Cholangiocarcinoma (Liver Bile Duct Cancer). Born on July 18, 1946, in Battle Creek, Michigan, Gary's vibrant spirit and independent nature touched the lives of many throughout his years.

Gary dedicated a significant part of his career to his passion for artistry and craftsmanship, owning an independent paint contracting company, Byrd's Painting. His commitment to excellence and detail was evident not only in his professional pursuits but also in his hobbies. Gary had a remarkable talent for restoring and working on vintage cars, often surprising his children with a revolving fleet of vehicles to drive. This ability to breathe new life into things extended to all aspects of his life, as he cherished old items and the memories they held.

An outdoor enthusiast, Gary enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he had a special fondness for camping and spending time with his family. His love for home renovation was paralleled by his interests in flea markets, where he would often search for vintage oil lamps, pocket knives, and marbles. A hardworking man with a connection to the land, Gary cultivated vegetables and raised animals, enjoying the simple pleasures of farming. He took joy in selling pumpkins and organizing hayrides for neighboring families, creating cherished memories in his community.

Gary was a proud member of the Gold Wing Road Rider Association for a substantial portion of his adult life, a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for riding.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 60 years, Carol Byrd, and their children: Teresa Byrd, Laura Zinke (Tom), Barbara Jacobs (Dan), and Robert Byrd. He is also survived by his siblings, William Byrd (Jeannie) and Linda Pyle (Ken), as well as those he considered like children, Angie Keegan (Don) and Joe Arnold, many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends in Parkwood Communities, Wildwood, Florida.

Gary's memory will further live on through his grandchildren, Jacob Poole (Morgan), Emily Poole, Alyssa Poole (Steve), Timothy Poole, Zack Robbins, Zoey Zinke, Michael Zinke, Shawn Zinke, Jeffrey Byrd, and Ashley Bradfield (Heather), Elizabeth Kazor (Korey), Kat Parrish (Robert), and Devon Lozano (Jeanie). He was also a proud great-grandfather to Makayla Poole, Jordyn Poole, Asa Edmonds, Leon Hoffman, Isabella Poole, Mali-Kie Vallad, JJ Vallad, Abel Suchonen, Wade Kazor, Jackson Parrish, and Emma Parrish.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Byrd and Jessie Byrd, who undoubtedly laid the foundation for the remarkable man he became, and by his nephew Ian Dunham, who held a special place in his heart.

Gary will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him. His legacy of joy, creativity, and love for family will forever be a guiding light to those he leaves behind.

Correspondence and/or donations for expenses can be sent to: 3343 Dexter Drive, East Leroy, MI 49051

A Celebration of Life will be held on: September 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM 3343 Dexter Drive, East Leroy, MI 49051