Victor Herbert Byrd

Victor H. Byrd

5/9/1945-8/20/2012

To say we loved him and he loved us is an understatement. Victor “Papo” Byrd found a way to love the life that was given to him with genuine passion, and it is with a passion that we mourn his loss. The following words can only but touch the thin surface of a life fully lived...

Our Heavenly Father received Victor H. Byrd, of Merced, CA. Monday, August 20, 2012. He was a beloved husband, father, Papo and friend; as well as a Retired Merced Police Officer and United States Army First Sergeant. Victor served 15 years with the Merced Police Department, but prior to that, he served 20 years In the United States Army (May 19th 1962 to May 31st, 1982). Some of his many medals and accomplishments while in the Army included receiving a Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal – 5 Awards, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist’s Badge, Drill Sergeant’s Badge, Recruiter’s Badge, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2), NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Sharpshooter’s Badge, and Service Stripes (4).

Always the entrepreneur, Victor owned and operated Dependable Investigations since 1997; as well as La Guardia Security since 2004. La Guardia Security is going strong in the capable hands of his loyal daughter, Mirla Williams of Merced.

Victor first made his mark on the world on May 9th, 1945, in Newark, Ohio. Most of his early adult years were spent living wherever the Army took him and his family. In 1981, he planted permanent roots in Merced and raised 4 boys and 1 girl.

Victor is preceded in death by his parents, Alice Byrd Roberts and Leslie Byrd; his sister, Ramona Byrd and his brother, Richard Byrd.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Ada Luz Byrd; sisters, Judy Carey, Vivian Ramsey, Margaret Byrd & Pat Stribling; daughter, Mirla Williams; and sons, Victor Byrd Jr. (Penny); Richard Byrd (Danielle), Gordon Byrd and fiancé` Ofelia Sandoval; and Manuel Byrd (Tonya).

Victor was known by his grandchildren by one name....“Papo”. He leaves behind his prides and joys: Victor Aaron Byrd, Austin Byrd, Jayla Salyer, Christian Byrd, Seth Gallegos, Nicholas Salyer, Alyssa Byrd, Evan Byrd, Jacie Byrd, Marisa Byrd, Jake Byrd and soon to make an appearance into this world, Colton Kennedy Byrd. Victor had a saying that he used to greet his grandsons with when their hair was too long for his taste, he would gently remind them...”Get a hair cut hippie”, to which most of the time a “rolling of the eyes” would be their only response.

The family would like to offer their sincere heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for the out pouring of love and compassion that has been extended to their family during this difficult and trying time. Though our hearts are empty, we find comfort in knowing that heaven is a little fuller now that Papo is there.

Please join us as we honor and celebrate the life of Victor “Papo” Byrd on Monday, August 27th, 10:00 a.m. at Yosemite Church, 2230 E. Yosemite Ave, Merced, CA. 95340. Graveside services will immediately follow.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home.