John E. Byard

On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, John E. Byard passed peacefully surrounded by his family. He was the devoted husband of Dawn M. Byard for 32 years; loving father of Ashley Byard and Owen Byard (Jessica Reynolds); cherished grandfather of Greyson Allowatt, Carson Byard, Kinsleigh Allowatt and Evelyn Byard; dear brother of Peggy (George), Darlene (Ronnie), Dottie (Bernie), Kim (Bob), Casey (Andy), Tina (Joe) and was predeceased by Joseph, Kathy, and Bill “Wumpy”; treasured son of the late William and Ruth Byard and son in law of Sue. John also survived by many nieces, nephews, other loving family and his dear friends Vicky & Bert Thoms and John & Cassandra Riggle.

John was a quiet, reserved man whose kindness spoke louder than words. The youngest of seven siblings, he shared a special and enduring bond with each of them and carried a deep love for family throughout his life. He had known his beloved wife Dawn since she was just twelve years old, and from those early days grew a lifelong love and devotion that never wavered. From their vows on June 5, 1993, they embarked on a journey of enduring love and commitment that would withstand anything life threw their way. Together they built a life rooted in love, joy and above all family.

John especially cherished his four grandchildren: Greyson, Carson, Kinsleigh and Evelyn, who brought out his softer side and filled him with pride. Whether it was teaching them little life lessons, sneaking them a treat, or simply sitting back and watching them grow, being their Pop was one of the roles he treasured most.

A skilled plumber who took great pride in his work, he was also the kind of man who was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He had a rare way of seeing the good in people, no matter their past or their mistakes, and he treated everyone with patience, understanding, and kindness. In his free time, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life; spending time with family and friends, a drink in one hand and a worn pool stick in the other, sharing stories and laughter around the pool table. He also enjoyed relaxing by the fire with friends, smoking a little weed, and taking life at a slower, easygoing pace.

Whether he was fixing a pipe, lining up the perfect shot, or taking green tea shots around the pool table with the people he loved most, John lived life on his own terms. He leaves behind a family who will deeply miss his unwavering love, wisdom and the unmistakable sound of pool balls cracking across the table.

The family will receive friends in the Lemmon Funeral Home of Dulaney Valley, Inc. 10 W. Padonia Road (at York Road) Timonium, Maryland 21093 on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 3-5 PM & 7-9 PM with a time of prayer and memory sharing beginning at 8 PM.

A Celebration of John’s Life will take place at Crescent Yacht Club, 1840 Cape May Rd, Essex, Maryland 21221 on Sunday, March 22, 2026 starting at 1PM.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be made towards a college fund for the grandchildren in John’s honor. Please make checks payable to Owen Byard.