Bernard L Byrd

Bernard “Benny” L. Byrd Bernard L. Byrd, affectionately known as Benny, was born on February 3, 1956, to the late Ada Culver and Spencer Byrd in Advance, MO and was the seventh child from this union. He was called to eternal rest and gained his wings on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the age of 69. Benny attended Bell City High School in Bell City, Missouri. He was known for playing basketball and was a very proficient player and was known as “Byrd” on the court. He enjoyed watching basketball and football and had a fondness for cars, car shows, trucks, and loved to watch Westerns. He had a love for down-home southern music, and you could always find him on the dance floor. He enjoyed working and fixing vehicles. You could find him on many occasions, under the hood of his car or truck, figuring out the problem. Benny was always just a phone call away and was always there when needed. Benny was very outgoing and enjoyed hanging out with his family and friends and always had a quick word or joke for everyone he met. He was very fond of children and had a way of creating special bonds. Benny had a nickname for everyone, especially his nieces and nephews. He worked as a truck driver for many years and worked for Maddrey Trucking Co. and Gerald Trucking Co. before his passing. Benny was preceded in death by his grandparents, his parents, four brothers, Jimie Byrd Jr., Robert Byrd, Gus Byrd, and Sol Byrd and brother-in-law Jessie Benson. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving and devoted fiancé Virginia M. Clark of Wilmington, DE; four sisters, Annrell Byrd Benson, Christella Byrd (Waymon) Benson, Beverly Gail Byrd, all of St. Louis, MO, and Addie P. Byrd of Atlanta, GA; step-children, Laurie Thompson (Cory) of Newark, DE, Sheddell Johnson of New Castle, DE, Lawyer Darnell Skinner of Newark, DE, Eric Clark (Andria) of Grasonville, MD, and Erin Clark (Tyrea) of Wilmington, DE; ten step-grandchildren, Tyric Hawkins, Eria Clark, J’den Clark, all of Grasonville, MD, Erienn Clark “Baby G” of Wilmington, DE and Tamma Johnson “Baby T” of New Castle, DE, Darnell Collins, Nikeem Miller, Kyle Skinner, Jahmier Skinner, and Alon Skinner; 1step great-grandson Alon Skinner Jr., all of Newark, DE; two best friends Billy Harris and Scott Taylor, both of Wilmington, DE, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

Bernard L Byrd

February 3, 1956 - January 19, 2026