SERVICES:  Monday, March 17, 2025

Jones and Son Chapel

2:00 p.m.

INTERMENT:  McLaurin Cemetery

VISITATION:  Sunday, March 16, 2025

Jones and Son Funeral Home

5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

DeVon "Dee" Leon Byrd, Jr., beloved husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, and loyal friend, began his eternal life in Heaven rejoicing with the angels, on March 11, 2025, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. His presence, wisdom, and humor left an unforgettable mark on the lives of those who knew him.
A Hattiesburg native, Dee was born on November 17, 1961, to DeVon Leon Byrd, Sr. and Linda Lou Byrd. He grew up with a deep appreciation for family, adventure, and laughter—values that he carried throughout his life. As a devoted follower of Christ, and ordained minister, Dee led by example throughout his life as a steady rock and foundation for all those around him.
Dee was the kind of person who could light up any room. Whether he wanted to be or not, he was often the center of attention, armed with a joke for every occasion and a knack for making people laugh. He was, in every sense, the glue that held those around him together. His love and devotion to his family were unwavering, and his greatest joy was spending time with his wife, Shirley, and their four boys.
Upon meeting Shirley, it was love at first sight. Their first date was on May 1, 1992, and just a few months later, on August 22, 1992, they were married. "I'm going to marry you," Shirley told Dee on their second date—words that proved to be fate. Their 33 years of love and commitment were a testament to their faith, resilience, and deep bond.
A man of many talents, Dee mastered the art of fishing, camping, cooking, music, photography, and humor. He found immense joy in cooking for his family and friends, taking pride in every dish he made. Whether it was his famous homemade pizza or his signature "super burritos", the Byrd house was always filled with the aroma of love and good food. Cooking wasn't just a hobby—it was one of the many ways he showed his love.
Beyond his personal passions, Dee dedicated his life to helping others. He was a passionate mental health clinician, earning his master's in psychology and gerontology from William Carey University. He pursued multiple certifications, including becoming a certified counselor, and touched the lives of many through his work. His empathy, patience, and understanding made him a trusted guide for those in need, and his legacy of care will live on in the countless people he helped.
Dee had a deep connection to the outdoors, and Fort Pickens was his sanctuary. He proudly boasted of spending over forty days camping and fishing there—a place where he found peace, reflection, and some of his greatest adventures. Whether by the water with a fishing pole in hand or gathered around a campfire sharing stories, he found solace in nature.
Dee is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Shirley Byrd; sons, Austin Byrd, Peyton Byrd, and Jason Byrd; granddaughter, Evelyn Byrd (daughter of Peyton); parents, DeVon Leon Byrd Sr. and Linda Lou Byrd; and sister LaDeea Draughn. He was preceded in death by his son, Devon Andrew Byrd; maternal grandparents, Edcar Dunkley Sr. and Jessie Agnes Dunkley; and paternal grandparents, Andrew Zollie Byrd and Roxanna Brewer Byrd.
His passing leaves an unfillable void, but his legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.
Services to celebrate Dee's life will be held at Jones and Son Funeral Home in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.  Visitation will be held March 16th, 2025 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be held March 17th at 2:00 p.m., with visitation from 12:00 to 1:50 p.m. and interment to follow at McLaurin Cemetery.
In honor of Dee, his family invites those who knew and loved him to share stories, laughter, and memories—just as he would have wanted.