Joy Kirby Byers

Joy Kirby Byers, age 89, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2026, in Euless, Texas. She was born on September 7, 1937, in Murray County, Oklahoma, to Ammar Kirby and Jewell Young.

Joy Edith Kirby was raised in Dimmitt, Texas, where she grew up as the tenth of eleven children in a very loving family. She and her siblings shared a deep bond throughout their lives, known for

their loving nature and, especially, the art of a big hug. Their family remained close through the years, gathering for large family reunions every three to four years; traditions that continue to bring together their children and grandchildren.

In 1954, Joy married John R. Byers, and together they built a life and raised three children; Kala, Pam, and Johnny. Joy had a gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved. She worked her way through cosmetology school while raising her young children.

The family moved to Euless in 1966, where she later owned and operated her own salon, Wilshire Hairstylist, and worked as a professional hairstylist for many years. During that time, Karen, Rae, Kay, Ethel, and Nettie became not only close friends but an important part of Joy's family.

Joy found great joy in the simple things in life and loved expressing her creativity. In her spare time, she enjoyed working with ceramics, painting, and assembling porcelain dolls. She lovingly gave each of her many dolls a name, reflecting the care and personality she brought to everything she did.

Those who knew Joy will remember her as a very caring person with a loving heart and an attentive ear. She always had a moment for you. She had a special way of listening that made people feel heard and cared for. And if you were lucky enough to know Joy, you were likely to receive one of her famous hugs.

Joy had a remarkable ability to make people feel like family. Once you were introduced to her, you became a part of her family, and she welcomed you with genuine warmth and love. Her greatest legacy will not be found only in the work she did or the things she created, but in the love she gave so freely to the people around her. She leaves behind a family and community of people who were made better by knowing her and who will carry her memory, and her hugs, in their hearts.

Joy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John R. Byers; her parents, Jewell and Ammar Kirby; four sisters; and five brothers.

She is survived by her brother, Vaden Kirby of Dimmitt, Texas, who at 102 years old carries with him a lifetime of cherished family memories; her children, Kala and Tommy McNeill of Euless, Texas; Pam Byers of Euless, Texas; and Johnny and Carol Byers of Cloudcroft, New Mexico; as well as six grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Her family was one of the greatest joys of her life, and the love and connection they shared will continue through the generations. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Visitation will be held at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 5725 Colleyville Blvd, Colleyville, Texas 76034, on September 18, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Cross City Church Euless Campus, 1000 Airport Fwy, Euless, Texas 76039, on September 19, 2026, at 11:00 am.