SERVICES:  Sunday, March 22, 2026

First Baptist Church of McLaurin

3:30 p.m.

INTERMENT:  McLaurin Cemetery

VISITATION:  Sunday, March 22, 2026

First Baptist Church of McLaurin

1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Linda Dunkley Byrd, who peacefully left this world on March 20, 2026, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born on February 2, 1939, in Beaumont, Mississippi, Linda's life was a testament to love, service, and joy, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

Linda was the cherished daughter of the late James Edcar Dunkley and Jesse Agnes Chandler. She was predeceased by her beloved siblings, Dora Harbin (Byron), Janice Whatley (Charles), and James E. Dunkley, Jr. (Billye); her cherished son, DeVon Byrd, Jr.; her grandson, Devon Andrew Byrd; and her son-in-law, Sandy Draughn.

Left to honor her memory is her devoted husband of 68 years, DeVon L. Byrd, Sr., who was not only her partner in life but her greatest co-adventurer. Linda was a loving mother to her daughter, LaDeea Draughn, and a nurturing mother-in-law to Shirley Hano Byrd. She adored her grandsons, Austin Byrd (Alyssa), Peyton Byrd (Lauren), Jason Byrd, Logan Draughn, and Dawson Draughn, and was delighted by her great-granddaughter, Evelyn "Evie" Byrd.  Her family was her greatest joy, and she embraced her role as a matriarch with grace and love. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and her adopted sons Steven Richard and William Landrum of whom held a special place in her heart.

Linda's early years were spent in the bustling environment of her father's general store, where she developed a strong work ethic and a keen sense of community. After graduating from Beaumont High School, she attended Clark College, broadening her horizons and laying the foundation for a life of service. Her career path led her to roles as a church secretary, a dietitian, and a devoted homemaker. Notably, Linda and DeVon raised funds to build ropes courses in Brazil, Belize, Kenya, and Mexico, leaving a legacy of service and adventure. Her work as a dietitian at Living Waters was legendary, earning the camp a reputation for the best food, with guests returning time and again for her sweet tea, cinnamon rolls, and her fried chicken and on occasion, fried raccoon. Her culinary talents were matched by her musical gifts; Linda became the church pianist at Union Baptist Church while in the eighth grade and returned to share her love for music at Union Baptist Church in Beaumont for many years. Linda's leadership skills were evident from a young age. At Beaumont High School, she was a leader in various clubs and events, even crowned the queen of Future Farmers of America and leading a parade in her senior year. Her love for oil painting was present in her home. Her love of flowers and gardening turned her yard into a vibrant showcase of nature's beauty, reflecting her artistic spirit. Known for her playful nature, Linda was a prankster at heart, with a legendary story of putting a green snake down a boy's shirt. Her home was a sanctuary of hospitality, often filled with as many as 50 people, college students and senior adult choirs, all drawn by her warmth, food, and exceptional skills in the game of Jokers, where she was a formidable opponent.

Linda's life will be celebrated on March 22, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church of McLaurin.  Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. until service time. Interment will be in McLaurin Community Cemetery.  Dr. Joshua Yeager will officiate the service.  Serving as pallbearers will be Austin Byrd, Peyton Byrd. Jason Byrd, Logan Draughn, Dawson Draughn, and Captain William Landrum.  Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Christopher Gould, Ammon James "AJ" Gould, and Steven Richard. Jones and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Her family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Brookdale Assisted Living and Hospice for their compassionate care during her final days.