Jeff Wade Byrd, 80, passed away December 6, 2014 at St. Andre Health Care in Biddeford, Maine. Jeff was born on August 30, 1934 in Gloster, MS, son of Cletus and Tennie Mae Berryhill Byrd. Jeff was educated in Gloster and joined the Air Force in July of 1958 receiving an associate’s degree in electrical technology. He was honorably discharged in 1964. Jeff married Bobbie Ann Turnage on Jan. 1, 1959. Together they returned to Mississippi where Jeff worked for NASA on the Space Shuttle Program until he retired in 1995. Jeff was active in raising his two sons. He was a Cub Scout leader, an avid fisherman and gardener. Everything he caught or grew was given to a neighbor or stranger in need of a good meal. Jeff was predeceased in death by his parents, his five brothers and sisters, his wife of 55-years, Bobbie Ann in May, 2014, and his grandson Jordan Daniel Byrd.
Surviving include his son Kenneth Wade Byrd wife Heidi of Saco, ME., son Jeffrey Alan Byrd of Atlanta, GA, grandson Justin Wade Byrd of Hattiesburg, MS and Aaron Meier of Houston, TX., several sister and brother-in-laws and many nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the wonderful caring staff at St. Andres Health Care, especially the staff of the 3rd floor short hall, the staff of Life Choice Hospice and the family members of the other residents of the 3rd floor short hall who gave their love and support to Jeff and his family. Jeff will be laid to rest in Columbus, MS alongside his wife Bobbie.
Visitation will be at 10:00 AM on Monday, Dec. 15 at Memorial Funeral Home, 716 2nd Ave N, Columbus, MS. Graveside services will follow at 11:30 AM at Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 176 S Frontage Rd., in Columbus, MS.