Mary E. Williams Byrd

Mary E. Williams Byrd was born on December 20, 1937, in Statesboro, Georgia, to her parents, the late Logan and Bessie Kirkland Williams. She passed into eternal rest on Monday, August 19, 2024, at Wellstar Community Hospice in Austell, Georgia, after a brief illness. She was a cherished mother and grandmother, who leaves an indelible impression on all who knew her.  Mary was raised in a nurturing environment, where she was raised with the values of hard work, love and respect. 

In May 1955, Mary was married to the late Robert E. Byrd, and to this union seven children were born. They shared a long life filled with shared laughter, and love. Mary was a dedicated member of the Second St. John Missionary Baptist Church of Statesboro. She retired from Georgia Southern university after many years of dedicated service.

Preceding her in death are her husband, the late Deacon Robert E. Byrd, two sons Eddie and Randolph, sisters Queen Ester, Betty, Geneva, Alzenia and brothers John Thomas and Claude "Buddy" and Thomas.

Mary has left a legacy through her five devoted children: Debbie Hightower of Douglasville, GA; Robert L. Byrd and Alden (Christy) Byrd both of Statesboro, GA; Lisa Hardy of Douglasville, GA; and Christopher L. (Demetria) Byrd of Vidalia, GA; additionally, she leaves cherished memories to her grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.

A public viewing for Mrs. Mary E. Byrd will be held Friday, August 23, 2024, from 1 PM to 5 PM at the funeral home. The family will receive guests for the family visitation from 5 PM to 8 PM.

Funeral services for Mrs. Byrd will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the Second St. John Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Frankie Owens, eulogist, Rev. Craig R. Tremble, Pastor/Presiding.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Shawn Byrd, Randon Byrd, Demetrius Houston, Howard McCrary, Andre Walton and Deandre Toby

Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of final arrangements. 

Family and friends may sign the online register book, express online condolences, send flowers or other memorial gifts via our website:

Wait for me until I get there.

With all the things that you taught me, I know I am going to get there.

Come winter, spring, summer, and fall the love you gave conquered all.

You help me understand God’s words often read and always heard.

Wait for me until I get there.

With your love, I became a man now look how tall I stand.

My tears fall with joy and pain somewhat like the rain.

The joy is to know that there will be no more pain.

The pain is not hearing you call my name.

Wait for me until I get there.

When I was down you picked me up.

My mother, my friend, and so much more.

I’ll always love you and know that you will be by my side no matter where I may go.

Thank you for who you are, my guiding light, my shining star.

Poem by:  Alden Byrd