Lucille Sherman Byrd

Lucille Byrd of Gladewater died peacefully Wednesday, August 17, 2016, at the age of 94. She is survived by daughter, Terry Jones of Gladewater, daughter-in-law Kathy Byrd of Gladewater and son-in-law Bill Hunter of Oklahoma. She was blessed with nine grandchildren: Matt Byrd, Mark Byrd, Cindy Dick, Cathy Barbee, Kalina Martin, Krista Crisci, Kyle Martin, Kalyn Geddie, and Colt Jones. Further blessings came from 15 great-grandchildren and two great-great- grandchildren. Lucille was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Rudolph Byrd. Also preceding her in death were: her son, Larry Byrd; daughter, Wanda Hunter; son-in-law, Alton Jones and great-granddaughter, Jessica Spence.

To her family and close friends she was affectionately known as "Mama Byrd".

Lucille was born September 2, 1921 near Chandler, Texas to Bascom and Maudie Lou West. During World War II, Lucille worked in the shipyards in Orange, Texas as an Electrician installing wiring in naval ships. While there she met the love of her life, Rudolph Byrd and married him in May, 1944.

Among her many hobbies, Lucille loved quilting, cooking, gardening, and crafting. She sought ways to help others and thrived on conquering challenges. One of her most notable challenges were serving as the "start-up coordinator" and first Director of the Smith County "Meals on Wheels Program" in Tyler in the early 70's. She continued to serve for 10 years in that capacity until 1983 when she retired to travel with her husband.

As a member of First Baptist Church of Gladewater, Lucille followed the Bible's teachings practicing them in her daily life as a wife and mother. While in her mid-80's until weeks before her passing she could be seen entering offices or clinics in Gladewater carrying either freshly baked banana nut bread to the employees inside or perhaps a beautiful, blooming Christmas cactus she had nurtured from a cutting into a beautiful plant. Mama Byrd's Legacy of Love and Caring will remain as a tribute to her in the heart of every life she touched while here on this earth.

Funeral arrangements are set for 3:00 p.m. Saturday, August 27, 2016 at Tyler Memorial Funeral Home located on Hwy 64 West in Tyler.

Family Visitation will be prior to the service at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels Ministry, 3001 Robertson Rd., Tyler, Texas 75701 or any charity of your choice.