Barbara Byrd

In Loving Memory of Barbara Elaine (Maddox) Byrd

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Barbara Elaine (Maddox) Byrd, who passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, at the age of 81. She is now safely in the arms of Jesus.

Barbara was born in Pulaski, Tennessee, on July 11, 1945. She grew up surrounded by family and cherished the simple joys of gathering together and sharing stories on the front porch. Those early years helped shape the humor, generosity, and strong family bonds that she carried through her life. Barbara built a life centered on faith, family, and friendship.

Barbara’s life was deeply rooted in her love for her family. Some of her happiest memories were the times she spent with her late sister, Renay White, and her surviving brothers, Ronnie (Charlotte) Martin of Pulaski, and Brad Martin of Sevierville, Tennessee.

In 1960, Barbara left Tennessee and moved to the Adrian/Tecumseh, Michigan, area, where she lived for approximately 30 years while raising her three daughters: Barbie (Mark) Cantrell of Carnation, Washington; Joy (Chris) Stoddard of Tecumseh; and Tina (Charley) Rebottaro of Tecumseh.

Later in life, she married Glenn Byrd and moved to Maryville, Tennessee. Together, they enjoyed traveling with the 4 By Grace gospel quartet, attending Tennessee Smokies baseball games, and going to Springview Baptist church.

In addition to her three daughters, Barbara was surrounded by a loving extended family that included Phil (Tara) Byrd, Glenda (Carl) Baker, Brenda Byrd, and Gwenda Byrd.

Barbara was blessed with 19 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought tremendous joy and love into her life.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she shared those values with her family. She taught them the importance of love, patience, kindness, and always showing up when it mattered most.

Barbara will be remembered for her steady heart, warm smile, and contagious laugh. She never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome, as though they were a lifelong friend. Her family will especially cherish the sense of love, comfort, and safety they felt whenever they were in her presence.

Barbara leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, laughter, and family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services were held at an earlier date.