Elizabeth Marie Byrd, a devoted wife, loving mother, beloved grandmother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida, surrounded by loved ones. She was 90 years old.

Born on March 31, 1935, in Richmond, Virginia, Elizabeth was the youngest daughter of Ruth Marie Davis (Morris) and Richard Alfonzo Davis. She was the sister of Katie and Marietta, and lived a life rooted in faith, service, and unconditional love.

On Valentine's Day in 1954, Elizabeth married the love of her life, James "Jim" Rogers Byrd—a day symbolic of their deep and enduring bond. Together, they raised two sons, James and Daryl.

In 1962, they left Richmond and settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, where Elizabeth dedicated her professional career to public service through a long and respected career with the Internal Revenue Service. Her excellence earned her numerous accolades and the admiration of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Never one to sit idle, Elizabeth remained active after retirement by working part-time at the Coach store—combining her fashion sense with her passion for service and connection.

Elizabeth was a dedicated and active member of Greater Liberty Baptist Church, where she united in March 1966 under the pastorate of Jerome Lewis, Sr. There, she poured her heart into service: teaching crocheting and sewing classes, working with food donation programs, singing in the choir, and sharing her faith through numerous ministries. Her love for God, her family, and her community was evident in all that she did.

She was known for her warmth, generosity, lively attitude, and unmistakable charm—a fashionable lady with a big heart and a sharp wit who lit up every room she entered. Elizabeth had a gift for making people feel safe, valued, and loved. Her presence left a lasting impression on all she touched.

Affectionately known as "Mom Byrd" by many, she was the heart of her extended family. She welcomed everyone with open arms and a warm kitchen, where her legendary macaroni and cheese was just one of many cherished recipes passed down through generations. She also had a deep love for sewing and crocheting—skills she passed on generously to others, not just as a craft, but as a way of showing her love.

One of the greatest blessings of her final year was celebrating her 90th birthday on March 31st, surrounded by friends and family—some in person, others virtually. She enjoyed her favorite food, her son's famous chicken wings, and enjoyed the outpouring of love from those whose lives she had touched. It brings comfort to know that so many were able to honor and celebrate her remarkable life while she was still with us.

Elizabeth was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim, and her sisters, Katie and Marietta.

She leaves her memories to be cherished to:  her eldest son, James (Ora), and youngest son, Daryl (Jessica). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Danea Gaines (Khristian), Tempra Byrd, Ty Royal, Torri Royal, Brandon Prokop (Kara), Jordan Byrd, Tre Pendergraph, Tina Mason (Christopher), Christopher Perkins (Krilauda), Anton Groomez, and Aaron (Jasmine). She is also survived by great-grandchildren: Tevion Royal Todd, Tapreia Royal Todd, Takarie Byrd, Tylan Byrd, Chloe Prokop, and Kali Prokop, as well as her great-great-grandchild, Capri, whom she had the joy of meeting before her passing.

Elizabeth's life was a testament to faith, love, and service. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation is from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on  Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Greater Liberty Baptist Church, 6209 Desmond Street, Madisonville  (45227).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy she leaves behind.

Interment will follow at Graceland Memorial Gardens - Milford, 5989 Deerfield Road, Milford, Ohio 45150.

To share a memory of Elizabeth or leave a special message for the Byrd family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Byrd family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.