Trustee Leo M. Byrd

On June 16, 2026, Leo McKinley Byrd, affectionately known as “Daddy, Granddaddy, Gook, Buckshot, Pinky, Mr. Byrd”, and by many other loving names, peacefully entered eternal rest in the comfort of his home after a remarkable life of 98 years. He was born on August 5, 1927, in Statesboro, Georgia, to the late Everetta Hendricks-Jackson and William “Billie” Byrd.

Leo was the oldest of seven children. He was preceded in death by his beloved siblings, Ledmon, Vernon, Bernice, Joyce, Patricia, and Elizabeth. As the eldest child, Leo learned responsibility early in life. Raised by a young mother whom he loved dearly, he left school after grade school to help support his family. Those early sacrifices helped shape the hardworking, dependable, and selfless man he would become.

On April 5, 1947, in Statesboro, GA,  Leo was united in Holy Matrimony to the love of his life, Annie M. Harris. Their union was a beautiful testimony of faith, commitment, and enduring love that spanned seventy-nine years. Together they built a strong foundation centered on God, family, and hard work. Their marriage stands as a rare and extraordinary example of devotion, and they were looking forward to celebrating eighty years together next year.

From this blessed union, nine children were born: Pastor James Willie (Elaine)  Byrd, Larry L. (Sandi) Byrd, Deborah A. Byrd McQuilla, Nadine (Isiah, Jr.) Jones, Paul G. Byrd, Alvin McKinley (LaTrell) Byrd; three of whom preceded him in death, Jerry Victor Byrd, Paula S. Byrd and Suzette M. Byrd. 

Leo’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He leaves behind a legacy that spans generations, including thirty-five grandchildren, eighty-three great-grandchildren, and ten great-great-grandchildren, for a total of 128 descendants. He is also survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

In 1966, Leo and Annie relocated to Jersey City, New Jersey, where he worked faithfully for Belchers/Coastal Oil Company in Bayonne, New Jersey, until his retirement in 1992. Following retirement, they relocated to Clover, South Carolina, where Leo became a beloved fixture in the community.

A master mechanic by trade and passion, Leo possessed an extraordinary gift for understanding anything mechanical. There seemed to be nothing he could not repair. Cars were his first love outside of family and faith. Whether rebuilding an engine, repairing a truck, or diagnosing a problem others could not solve, Leo’s skills were unmatched. Family members often joked that he could build a car from scratch. His garage, shop, and driveway became gathering places where knowledge was shared, lessons were taught, and memories were made.

Leo’s generosity knew no limits. If a loved one was stranded, he would travel hundreds—even thousands—of miles to help them. He faithfully transported family members to and from college, assisted relatives in times of need, and often stood in the gap for others without being asked. Having helped raise cousins and family members throughout his life, he became a father figure and mentor to many beyond his own children.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Leo’s spiritual foundation was established at Noah’s Ark Missionary Baptist Church in Statesboro, Georgia, where he worshipped during his childhood and formative years. After relocating to South Carolina, he became a devoted member of Jerusalem Baptist Church. What began with attending a single Easter Sunday service blossomed into a lifelong commitment to the church and its ministry. 

Throughout the years, he faithfully served on the Trustee Board, sang in the Men’s Choir and Hymn Choir, and actively participated in the Brotherhood Ministry. His unwavering dedication to God, his church family, and the work of the Kingdom remained steadfast throughout his life. As the oldest male member of the congregation, he earned the affectionate title of “The Father of the Church,” a reflection of the wisdom, leadership, and respect he embodied.

Known throughout Clover, York County, South Carolina, New Jersey, and beyond, Leo was respected for his integrity, wisdom, and willingness to help others. Whether driving his beloved white dually truck, zooming around in his convertible red mustang, working in his shop “down da back” Rose Ave (Jersey City), riding his lawn mower, serving his church, or spending time with family, he represented strength, character, and dedication.

Leo was the patriarch of his family, a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, treasured great-grandfather, caring uncle, loyal cousin, trusted friend, faithful church member, and respected community leader. His life was defined not by wealth or titles, but by service, sacrifice, faith, and love.

His hands were built, repaired, and provided. His heart nurtured and protected. His wisdom guided generations.

Though he has departed from this earthly life, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the values he instilled, and the family he so deeply loved.

A life well lived. A legacy well earned. A man deeply loved.

“Gone but not forgotten “

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