Katherine Pearl (Bailey) Byrd

Katherine Pearl Bailey Byrd passed away in her hometown of Haskell, Texas on Tuesday November 21, 2023.  She was born September 14, 1924, to Maybell and James Bailey, although she was brought up by her grandparents, Jim and Pearl Bailey Wimberley.  (Her father passed away from an oilfield accident when she was 2.  Her mother then married Jim Wimberley.)  At an early age, she was married to Alton L Byrd of Stamford, Texas, where they made their home for a number of years before moving to Rochester.  (Mr. Byrd owned and operated 2 lumberyards in both Stamford and Rochester for several years before making their home in Rochester).  Also, at an early age, Mrs. Byrd graduated with a theology degree, becoming a licensed minister with the Foursquare Gospel International organization and then pastored several area churches, although she also attended both Hardin Simmons and Abilene Christian University to complete her degree.

Rev. Byrd was highly sought after as a speaker in a number of venues, as well as a Bible teacher, pastor, and minister of the gospel until her health began to fail.  She probably officiated at more funerals in various denominations, as well as her own, than any other minister in the West Texas area.

She was a wonderful homemaker, cook and a most devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, and friend.  Always striving for ways to improve herself, she was an avid reader and constant learner.  She dressed immaculately and did all things well.  Always looking for the best in people, she proved to be a loyal and generous person to her friends and congregation, or anyone in need.  Her sense of humor and personality endeared her to all who met and knew her.  And it was obvious that she loved and appreciated her church congregation.  Several made their home with the Byrd’s as they were growing up, and she had many guests at their table through the years to enjoy her delicious meals, always making them feel welcome.

Katherine experienced numerous tragedies in her life, yet her deep abiding faith was always observed by those who really knew her well.  She had an extraordinary prayer life and genuine walk with the Lord, always rising above the heartaches and encouraging others.

She is survived by a son, Thomas Delbert Byrd of Saint Jo; a granddaughter, Tiffany Belle Byrd; and a grandson Mike Lance Byrd of Abilene; 2 twin great-granddaughters, Brooke and Brandy Byrd; and 3 great grandsons, Damon, Bryson, and Jacoby Byrd; a great-great granddaughter, Ainslee Grace Byrd; 3 nieces, Cindy Wimberly, Jeanie Hollingsworth-Dulaney, and Kelly Kittzmiller; a nephew, Kevin Crowley; as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews.  She was a lifelong friend to Billie Ruth Kight Korngable of Fort Worth, to Jean Ross Davis of Abilene, and to the Cozby family of Stamford, along with Donna Byrd and Karen Byrd both of Rochester and several other special friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, Anthony Lawrence Byrd; a grandson, Cody Byrd; a granddaughter, Dana Byrd; a great-grandson; 3 sisters; and a brother; along with several nephews, and lifelong friends, Bob and Joyce Easterling and Jo Evelyn Patterson.

A funeral service will be held 2:00pm, Saturday, November 25, 2023 at Faith Chapel in Rochester, a church built by Rev. Byrd and her husband, along with the congregation.  Rev Randy Hollingsworth (current pastor of Faith Chapel) and Bro. Paul Chambers will officiate with music by Donna Byrd.  Burial will follow in Rochester Cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 5-7pm, Friday, November 24, 2023 at Haskell Funeral Home, 2 Ave D.  Condolences may be made at www.haskellfuneralhometx.com.

Memorials may be made to Faith Chapel, P. O. Box 57, Rochester, TX 79544.