The family of Vida Bess Byrd of Corsicana, TX announces her passing, and invites all who knew her to remember her here.
What follows is a brief look at the life her family wishes to share.
Vida held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew her best.
A life of faith is rarely a life of certainty — but always one of trust.
Vida Bess Byrd went to be with our Lord and Savior on April 26, 2026. We take great comfort knowing that she passed peacefully, in her sleep.
Vida was born on May 19, 1938, to William O. "Bud" Brown and Frankie Belle Brown in Kilgore, TX. Her family moved to Abbeville, LA when Vida was five. She remained there until she graduated from high school as valedictorian of her class in 1956. While in high school, Vida was the drum major of the band, as well as her church's pianist. She was an accomplished dancer and baton twirler. She considered becoming a concert pianist, as she was sought after to do so, but she decided that she didn't want to live a life on the road.
Vida attended Baylor University where she majored in music and religion. Whilst there, she met the man who would become her husband of 64 years. She married Joe Larry Byrd in 1959 and began her life of adventure as an Air Force wife, moving around the country at least 12 times during his career (living her life on the road!) She was active in every church they joined in all of those moves. Vida taught Sunday school to every age range from teenagers to senior citizens. She was also the church pianist at multiple churches.
Vida and Larry settled in Corsicana, TX in 1991 after Larry retired. She was able to spend many years with her mother and stepfather, both of whom she adored. Vida and Larry were active members of the First Baptist Church of Corsicana. She taught Sunday School and multiple bible studies until her health no longer permitted it.
Vida's proudest accomplishments were her two children, whom she loved with every ounce of her being. She considered becoming a Precept Ministries Bible Study teacher as her next greatest accomplishment. Ladies in the area still talk about her bible studies – her biblical knowledge and ability to teach.
Vida was preceded in death by her father, mother, stepfather, and husband. She is survived by her son David Byrd (Marie) of Leavenworth, KS, daughter Laura MacGregor (Douglas) of Corsicana, TX, three grandchildren Katy Byrd, Mark Byrd (Helen) and MacKenna MacGregor and great-grandchild, Malcolm Byrd.
Visitation with the family will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home with Dr. Danny Reeves officiating. Burial will follow at DFW National Cemetery at a later date.
