Charles (Chuck) Lawrence Byrd

Charles (Chuck) Lawrence Byrd, age 76, of Gulfport, MS, passed away on Monday, January 11, 2020. Charles was born in Huxford, AL on October 11, 1944, the fourth of five children of Curtis and Beatrice (Flowers) Byrd. Charles graduated from Ernest Ward High School, Walnut Hill, FL in May 1963. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served honorably until his discharge at Hickam AFB, Hawaii in May 1967. He was then employed by the United States Navy Civil Service in June of 1967 at Pensacola Naval Station. He married the love of his life, Peggy, June 15, 1968. He completed his bachelor of arts degree from Upper Iowa University and his Master of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. Charles worked for the United States Navy and Marine Corps Civil Service for 40 years until his retirement in 2002. He finished his career as the Director of the Civilian Personnel Department, Human Resource Officer. He was awarded many awards throughout his career including the Navy Meritorious Civilian Award in 1992. Charles enjoyed his retirement travelling the world to multiple countries with his wife and spending time in the outdoors gardening. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Beatrice Byrd; father and mother-in-law, Brulie and Pearl Barron; brothers, Roy Byrd, Bobby Byrd; and sister Linda Jefferson. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Peggy Barron Byrd; daughters, Robyn (Jeff) Webb, Kristy (Gary) Martin, and Carrie (Eric) Singer; grandchildren Jacob Resendez, Justin Resendez, Nate (Amy) Martin, Cade Martin, Vance Singer, Annabelle Singer and Alaina Singer; and great grandson Paul Martin; sister, Jan (Stan) Stuart, and sister in law, Janette Byrd; his many nieces and nephews and his beloved dog Pojo. Special thanks to SAADs Hospice care nurses Monique and Vicki for their unwavering support and care. Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Byrd family.