Clara Gene Byrd

Clara Byrd passed away on July 4, 2016 at age 60.
She was a fierce and loyal mother, friend, and daughter. Born in Amarillo, TX and later lived in Biloxi, MS. She always had her family there by her side. She married Gerald Byrd and had two daughters, Heather and Jessica. She loved her children very much, and was always there as a shoulder to cry on and was the loudest cheering section for their victories. Family and God were her top priorities, and taught her daughters the value of both.
She graduated from Biloxi High School, and received a Bachelor's Degree from USM. She began teaching special education at Sacred Heart Elementary School in D'Iberville, MS, then relocated to Bassfield, MS to further her teaching abilities where she helped many children gain the love of learning. She loved her job, and it showed in her care and affection for her students.
She was also an animal lover, and had dogs growing up she absolutely loved like children. She never missed a single doggie's birthday. She and her husband made sure to instill in their children a love for animals of all kinds.
Clara was a kind and caring soul, could always find the good in a person, and had a heart overflowing with spirit and love. She had music in her soul and found joy in every note. Later in life she attended classes for Classical Music Directing at William Carey College in hopes of becoming a church choir director.
She took every opportunity to visit her extended family in Biloxi every school break or holiday, but especially enjoyed the Christmas season. It was always a huge family gathering, full of joy and her favorite fruitcake cookies from Grandma, who passed on that same love to Clara's children. Family; love; a caring soul-- these were the treasures that made Clara who she was, and her memory will remain alive and vibrant, for she lives on in the hearts of her loved ones.
Clara is preceded in death by her mother Mary Lowman and her father Raymond Lowman. She is survived by her husband, Gerald Byrd and her daughter/son-in-law Heather Hughes & Ron Hughes, and daughter/son-in-law Jessica & Charles Atwell Jr. Her sisters and brother-in-laws: Charlotte & Don Powell, Gail & Bobby Soles, Jody & John Touart, Becky & Eddie McDaniel, and David & Annell Byrd; her nieces/nephews Steve Powell, Wes Powell, Samantha Anderson, Jennifer McDaniel, Andy Soles, and Jet Touart.
A memorial service will be held at Beauvoir United Methodist Church in Biloxi, MS - 2113 Pass Road at 1:00 PM, Saturday the 9th of July.