Glenda is survived by her husband, Theron Ray Byrd; her children, Russell Byrd (Kathy) and Leanne Byrd Alexander (Paul); her eight grandchildren, Josh Meyer (Randi), Morgan Byrd Smith (Shawn), Laura Alexander Moore (Grant), Russ Meyer, Lindsey Byrd Herndon (Riley), Jacob Alexander, Richard Byrd (Faith), Katie Meyer Wilson (Travis); and her nine great grandchildren, George, Margaret, and Lucy Meyer; Jack Smith; Judah, Henry, and Crosby Moore; Daniel and Taylor Herndon. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Orbra and Ruie Dickson Young and baby brother, James Freddie Young, who passed during infancy.
Glenda was born on December 17, 1934, in Enville, Tennessee to James Orbra and Ruie Dickson Young. She moved with her family to Memphis when she was eight years old. She attended Bellevue Junior High School and Central High School, graduating in 1952. Glenda went on to attend Memphis State University where she was a member of Delta Zeta sorority. On September 4, 1953, Glenda married Theron Ray Byrd at Union Avenue Baptist Church. Their love for each other was still evident after almost 69 years of marriage.
Glenda worked briefly for HC Cole Milling Company and then joined the National Bank of Commerce as a secretary, later rising to Head Teller. She changed careers in 1968, becoming a Librarian’s Aide at Bartlett High School, serving in that position for more than 20 years until her retirement in 1991. Bartlett High School became a second family to her as she made countless friends among the administration, faculty, staff, and students with many of these relationships remaining throughout her life.
Glenda was a proud mother to Russell and Leanne and became lovingly known as Mimi to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She and Ray attended countless ballgames, music and dance recitals, practices, graduations, and many other events regardless of time or distance.
During her retirement years, Glenda and Ray developed a passion for genealogy, leading them to many parts of Tennessee, particularly Perry County. They made many lasting friendships during those journeys. Their shared appreciation of Elvis Presley and his music led to friendships with other Elvis fans from across the United States and around the world. They also enjoyed traveling and made memorable trips to Alaska, Hawaii, and many countries in Europe.
Glenda’s passing has touched many, but we can take heart that as a believer in Christ, she has received the gift of eternal life and now sits with the King of Glory. We grieve at this moment but look forward to our promised reunion.
A celebration of her life will be held Friday, August 19, at Memphis Funeral Home with visitation at 1:00pm and the service at 2:00pm. Graveside service and burial will follow at Memorial Gardens. Memorial tributes may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Elvis Presley Trauma Center-Regional One Health.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralGermantownParkway.com for the Byrd family.
