James Edward Byrd, 83, of Laurel, Mississippi, passed away Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at University Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. He was born Friday, February 10, 1939, in Laurel, Mississippi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Cyrus and Ida Jane Byrd, son, Larry Shafer, brothers, John E. Byrd, Jerry E. Byrd, sister-in-law, Bettye Byrd.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years Sandra Lee Byrd, sister, Carolyn Byrd, brother-in-law, George Jaynes, sisters-in-law, Taunya Macht, Lynn Byrd, Virginia James, daughter-in-law, Daphne Shafer, granddaughter, Khloe Shafer, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Byrd worked with the Laurel Fire Department for 14 plus years after serving in the Army. During his military service, he was deployed to Miami, Florida for the Cuban Missile Crisis, he was prepared to invade Cuba should the need arise. He was self employed as a housepainter and later as owner/operator of a pilot car company. He owned Cross Roads Grocery and Hamburger Stand in Myrick for 11 years. He was an active member of Bethlehem Baptist Church. He loved camping with his wife and touring the USA. He was happiest outside. He loved birds, flowers and all things nature. If something didn't work correctly, he would analyze it and figure out a way to make it better. He always pushed himself to put forth more effort into a problem or project than others would give. He loved to color and was an expert at using intricate details and selecting the perfect color. He thoroughly enjoyed working with his hands and could build anything.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 24, 2022, from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Laurel, MS. Funeral Services will be held Sunday, April 24, 2022, at 3:00 PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church and the Burial will follow in Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery. Bro. Cary Kimbrell will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. (601) 649-3342

Pallbearers will be Bradley Byrd, Byron Byrd, Scott Arrington, Brantley Johns, Jamey Kelley and Bob Smiley.

Honorary pallbearers will be Billy Langley, David Schutz, Larry West, and John Gerlach.

A special thanks to Linda Suttle for all of your help and kindness. To George Jaynes: You were a true blessing and your love and support was unbelievable, thank you forever. To David Schutz: Thanks for the memories, hard work, good times and enduring friendship. To Larry West: I beat you at the pool tables many years ago and now I've beat you to the other side! See you there, my friend.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations may be made to an animal shelter of your choice or Bethlehem Baptist Church in his honor.

Online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapellaurel.com