James Vernon Byrd, 99, of Laurel passed away on Wednesday, February 16, 2022.  He was born on February 16, 1923.

A celebration of Vernon's life will be held Friday, February 18, 2022, at Lake Congregational Methodist Church. Visitation will start at 1:00PM with the graveside services to follow at 2:00PM.  Brother Kenneth Harrison of Dumas, Mississippi, will be in charge of the service with the help of Brother Bill Ross and Jimmy Holder. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. (601) 649-3342.

Vernon was an active member and deacon of Lake Church.  He was a graduate of Sandersville High School.  He was a World War II veteran who was a member of the US Navy, and he was most proud of serving on PT Boat 106.  In the 50s, Vernon moved to Odessa, Texas, with only $15 in his pocket, and he started his own drilling company.  He later created V & B Drilling Company, which he ran for most of his professional career until his retirement in his late seventies.

He was preceded in his death by his parents, Glennie J. Byrd and Edna Rustin Byrd; Virginia Jones Byrd, wife of over thirty years; brother Glenn Laverne "HotShot" Byrd; and sister Gladys Byrd Henke.

He is survived by his wife of over thirteen years, Anne Kelley Byrd; his brother Marvin L. Byrd (Carol); his daughters, Misty Byrd Foster (Mac), Laurie Tidwell Daniel, and Cyndi Tidwell Waltman (Bart); seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Scott Rustin, Ferrell Stroud, Craig Byrd and grandsons Dallas Rustin, Conar Foster, and Cole Daniel.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapellaurel.com