Clyde Edwin Byrd Jr.

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Service Schedule
Memorial Service
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home Chapel
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
3:00 PM
Memorial Contributions
Scholarship Fund to be Announced
Little Rock, AR  
Clyde Edwin Byrd Jr.I am a Veteran.

of Sherwood, AR

August 21, 1952 - October 24, 2014

Clyde ''Buddy'' Edwin Byrd Jr., 62, of Sherwood passed away October 24, 2014. He was born on August 21, 1952 in Little Rock, Arkansas.
He attended and graduated from Catholic High School for Boys. He joined the United States Navy at the age of 19. While in the Navy he was attached to Squadron VAQ-133. His squadron was attached to the USS John F Kennedy based out of NAS Whidbey Island. He helped maintain the squadron's fleet of EA6b's, whose job it was to deploy airborne counter-measures. He met his future wife, Karen Lee Hoffman, who was from Whidbey Island, and the two got married on May 21, 1976. They moved back to Arkansas the following August and bought their first home. On August 21 1979, their first and only child was born, Kyle Edwin Byrd.
Clyde was hired by Dassault Falcon Jet to work in the Avionics Department. While working at Falcon Jet, Clyde attended night classes at UALR for Engineering. He acquired his Bachelor's Degree in Engineering and was soon-after promoted by Falcon Jet to the Engineering Department. While working there, Clyde was sent to France by Falcon Jet to help design the Falcon 7x and 8x. Clyde was an irreplaceable component of Falcon Jet. His technical expertise and experience will be sorely missed.
Buddy was diagnosed with stage 3 liver cancer in February 2014. Even though his prognosis was bleak, Clyde maintained a positive attitude until the end. He never complained of his condition or asked for any special accommodation for himself. Clyde remained a pillar for those around him even though he was fighting for his life. Even in his weakened state he was still quick to help anyone in need. He never asked for anything in return and always tried to do the best job he could each and every time.
Clyde's love and devotion as a father was always present. He never turned his back on his family or friends, even though he may not have understood or agreed with what they were going through. He faced his death the same way he faced his life: with courage and dignity, headstrong, never showing any fear or remorse for his position. Clyde accepted Jesus Christ into his heart while on his deathbed, and with this acceptance, those that were close to him can rest knowing that one day our paths will cross with his.
Clyde was a beloved father, devoted husband, and cherished friend and co-worker. Clyde was a living example of how to live one's life. He will be missed every day that his presence is not felt, his knowledge is not known, and his words are not spoken. From Kyle: ''Father, I love you with all my heart. I miss you already. Life will never be the same without you. You picked me up each and every time I fell. You never lost hope for me. You never stopped trying to point me in the right direction. You have left an example and a road map on how to live a good, decent life. You will not be forgotten and your death will not be in vain. Until that day when we see you again, goodbye, Father. I love you. Get some rest.''
Memorial services will be at 3:00 P.M., Tuesday, October 28, 2014 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home Chapel, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, AR 72211, (501)224-8300.
If you wish to make a donation in Buddy's memory, a scholarship fund will be set up at a later date.

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41 Condolence(s)
Peter Ward
PENSACOLA, FL
Liked
Monday, March 6, 2023

Clyde, you were in boot camp with me, went to Millington for training afterwards. You even took me with you, back home to Little Rock for the weekend once, in your corvette. We went our separate ways from Millington, and lost touch. Many years passed; a lifetime, it seems. I only just found out about your passing. I pray I see you again, someday, in Heaven. Your fellow shipmate, Pete Ward

Bruce Barnes
Ashland, OR
Liked
Thursday, November 10, 2022

I knew your mom and dad very well. It's no surprise to me that you made so much of your life.

Anonymous
,
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Thursday, November 20, 2014

Anchors Aweigh, my boys,
Anchors Aweigh.
Farewell to foreign shores,
We sail at break of day-ay-ay-ay.
Through our last night ashore,
Drink to the foam,
Until we meet once more.
Here's wishing you a happy voyage home.

Jim McCoid
Memphis, TN
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Thursday, November 13, 2014

I guess God thinks he needs Clyde's help more than we do; and who are we to argue with God! Thanks for the trip down the Autobahn (I didn't know a 3-cylinder car could go that fast) and for all the other fine memories. You always had a way to turn any situation into a positive experience and I will always be grateful for that. I love you, man. I miss you. Save a seat for me up there, even if it's in the back seat.

Ken Tigges
Stafford, VA
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Sunday, November 2, 2014

Karen and Kyle,
I am real sorry for your loss. I've known Clyde from late 73 to August 76 when we both arrived nearly the same time to the Avionics shop at VAQ-133. It was fun to be around him again at our reunion at Whidbey. I admired his knowledge of cars and engines and fondly remember when he wanted me to buy his car. (Just can't remember if it was a Chevy or Plymouth, but I know he said it got 4 miles per gallon!) I was not worthy of that muscle car! He was a real smart guy too! Read a lot of books on the two cruises we were on. I had no idea he was sick at Whidbey as he seemed so happy to be there. I will truly miss you Clyde, thanks for being my friend.

Randy Ashley
North Little Rock, AR
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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

It is a great loss to me and so many others to lose Clyde. I have been proud to call him my friend for a long time. I will never forget the good times we had together and all of the help he has given me thru the years. May God bless you and give you strength thru these difficult days.

Joe Gerke
Little Rock,
Liked
Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Karen and Kyle,
We are so sad and glad to hear Clyde has passed. Our sincere condolences for your loss. He was one of the ones that made working at Falcon Jet worthwhile. It is good to know he is with The Lord. We will miss him. Stay close together.

Robert Feazell
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Dear Clyde, words are hard to find. I have known you for just a short time, just over 5 years compared to most at Dassault , but everytime I needed the help it was there as a "fountain of knowledge".

Thank you for the guidance with patience you always gave freely. A true gentleman and kind soul to work with.

May the perpetual light of our Lord Jesus shine upon you.

David Michel and Sabine
Saint Cloud,
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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Sabine and myself are very sorry to learn about Clyde disappearance. I really enjoyed to work with Clyde, all the years I've worked at Falcon Jet. He was a real example of Completion engineer, sharing his experience and easy to work with. He will definitively miss us.
In this sad day, receive all our condolences and our sympathy.
Michel and Sabine David

Ken Root
Bluffton, SC
Liked
Tuesday, October 28, 2014

May the mercies of our Father above envelope your hearts and give you comfort during this time of deep loss.

Gary K. Jackson
Poulsbo, WA
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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

I feel very privalidged to have served with Clyde in the US Navy, he was a great guy, very sharp and had so many interests that made him a person that was enjoyable to be around. It was just 2 months ago that we were able to spend time with Clyde and Karen on Whidbey Island for the VAQ 133 Reunion, Our condolences go out to Clydes family

Randy Haley
Bryant, AR
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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

My deepest and sincere sympathy for your family. Clyde was a fantastic person to work with and for in my time at DFJ. One of the truly remarkable people that made going to work there a joy. Clyde was always supportive and understanding - never hesitated to break from what he was doing to address my concerns. Very glad to know that he is now in the arms of Christ.

Jim Smallwood
Cabot, AR
Liked
Tuesday, October 28, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. Clyde was a friend and colleague @ DFJC for many years. May God bless you all!

Cami & Tom Stepp
Sheridan, AR
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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

We are so sorry to hear Clyde’s passing, take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. Clyde will be missed at DFJ and we all here will remember how sweet and helpful he was to everyone. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends.

Greg and Brenda Davenport
Cabot, AR
Liked
Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Clyde, don't argue with St. Peter about placing you on a cloud with a Liberal. I'm sure he has a special place set up just for you. There is even a garage specailly built for all of your car projects. He also knows about the guns parts you have in the trunks, and the extra brass casings for reloading. Thought you would slip that by too didn't ya.
Your wit, knowledge, and wisdom will be forever remembered. Our prayers go out to your family. God bless.

JP German
Paris,
Liked
Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Dear Clyde, I will remember for ever our partnership in Paris in 2002 and your dedication to Dassault Falcon Jet.
Despite difficulties due to 7X challenge and different people cultures, you kept calm and ready to help for improvement.
Clyde, rest in peace, now.
To Clyde family, please accept my condolences for your loss.

Mark & Natalie Schneider
Vail, AZ
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Clyde will be missed by many. I especially enjoyed talking to him about classic cars. Clyde knew everything about classic Chevy's down to the tiniest detail (how many 69 Chevy Camaro's were built, which options were built and the month they were built) it was nice to know that if you had any questions regarding any subject Clyde was your man.

Doug Dawson
Sherwood, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

His door was always open and willing spirt to help. In my 7 1/2 years of knowing Clyde I can't say that I ever seen him loose his temper. He was a kind man and will be missed. God Bless you and your family.

MaryGrace Giangarra
Little Rock, AR, AR
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Monday, October 27, 2014

Our deepest sympathies for your loss! Clyde truly was and an amazing man. He was always there to lend a hand, teach, or just share an anecdote. He was the "go to man" for anything and everything ad DFJ. I will keep with me the many memories I have working and speaking with Clyde. May he rest in peace, and may his memories comfort you in your time of sorrow. God bless!

Doug
Benton AR,
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

We'll all miss you, buddy. Great man to work with and go to for complex engineering answers. Rest well.

Jo Greenhill (McMinn)
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Byrd I know you will be missed by so many folks. You were a kind, gentle spirit always willing to give a helping hand for anyone in need. I'm honored to have been able to meet you. My thoughts and prayers go to your family to heal their broken hearts and give them peace.

Debi Kraemer
Cabot, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Our loss is heaven's gain. Clyde will be greatly missed. My prayers will be with his family during this sad time but knowing that we will see him once again brings joy to our hearts. He is healed now.

Daniel P. Hoffman
Puyallup, WA
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Monday, October 27, 2014

Rest in peace Uncle Clyde.

Halil Cansiz
Mudanya, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

My dear friend, may God reward you with the comfort and peace for being kind and gentle person you were. You will be missed greatly.

Jerry M Young
Burleson, TX
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Rest in peace, you have been a outstanding example for all of us!!

carl strange
rogers, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

althought we didn't work together, I met and talked wih Clyde a few times in the hallway at Falcon Jet and I liked his attitude and outgoing presence..

Molly & David Warrington
Benton, AR
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Monday, October 27, 2014

Karen, Kyle and Family,

Our hearts go out to you during this most difficult of times. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Clyde was truly one of a kind and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. God bless and keep you all.

Ted & Wenday Alexander Jr
North Little Rock, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Sorry for your loss; our thoughts and prayers are with you. Always enjoyed working projects at work with Clyde; one of the good ones that you could coutn on.

Rodney Kooiman
Mabelvale, AR
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Monday, October 27, 2014

Prayers go out to Clyde's family. Cyde's will leave behind a remarkable legacy. He truly walked the walk. I worked with Cylde 28 years and he was one of the best.

Brett Johnson
Sherwood, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Clyde was a friend and colleague. What a blessing he was and I will always cherish our friendship. Many don't know, as I do, his talents as a motorcycle builder. I enjoyed talking with him about this subject whenever we both had the time. It brings me comforting joy to know that he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior knowing with out a doubt he will spend all of eternity in Heaven. May God Bless the Family and cover you with grace and love. In Gods Love.

Carl & Kathy McGehee
Conway, AR
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Monday, October 27, 2014

We will miss our beloved friend and co-worker who we worked with for so many years.

Chip & Terri Hamilton
Cabot, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Clyde, Our hearts and prayers go out to your family. You were the true definition of a "great guy"; a real gentleman and a friend. You had an irreplaceable wealth of knowledge; always available to educate as well as help. Your daily presence, expertise, sense of humor, gentleness and kindness will be deeply missed. You will never be forgotten! May you rest in God's Peace.

Bob & Tina Walton
Romance, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

Our prayers continue for Clyde's family for comfort and peace today and in the days ahead. Clyde will long be remembered as one of DFJ's finest and there are no words to describe our loss. We will reflect with gratitude for the time we have had and look forward to a future that is far more desirable than this earthly body can fathom.

Richard Ramsey
North Little Rock, AR
Liked
Monday, October 27, 2014

friend and co-worker. May God Bless you and keep you close durning this time.

Cathy Shelton
Conway, AR
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Monday, October 27, 2014

Such a good man has left us here but will in God's eternal light forever.

Thresia Thompson
Little Rock, AR
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Monday, October 27, 2014

My love, thoughts, and prayers go out to Kyle and Karen, and to Clyde's many friends.
Clyde always was fair and forthright in the decisions he made, and the example he set as a friend and leader for all of DFJ employees to follow. I truly enjoyed working with him. In my heart, I know I will see him again, and like Kyle stated, 'get some rest' - Clyde you have earned it! A great man has been laid to rest and a great friend is missed. So blessed to know you are with Christ Jesus, Thresia Thompson

Bob Swenson
River Falls, WI
Liked
Sunday, October 26, 2014

Karen and Kyle,

We are so sorry for your lose! I served with Clyde during our time in VAQ 133 and when we were aboard both the USS AMERICA and the USS JOHN F. KENNEDY.
I got to renew our friendship when we once again met on Whidbey Island for the Squadron reunions.
Clyde's passing has impacted all of his former Navy friends more than anyone can realize.
I admire the strength Karen, that both of you exhibited, I don't believe any of us knew how serious his condition was.
Kyle hang on to your Dad's memories, they are a precious commodity, and be as strong as possible for your Mother.
Allow me to para phrase.
Anchors aweigh--, my friend-- Anchors aweigh,-- Until we meet again,-- Anchors Aweigh.

Bob (Bobby) and Kathy Swenson

Tim Floyd
Sullivan, IL
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Sunday, October 26, 2014

Karen & Kyle, I was in the Navy and in VAQ-133 with Clyde. He and I arrived in the squadron at about the same time. He was a great guy with a very unique sense of humor. He never lost his love of cars, motorcycle or airplanes. He was also one of the most intelligent people I have ever met. Please accept my condolences for your loss of Clyde. I will miss him very much. He was a good friend and will never be forgotten.

Gary West
Oak Harbor, WA
Liked
Sunday, October 26, 2014

Clyde Byrd
A nicer person you could not find. I’m sorry to hear that he is no longer with us. I’m extremely proud to call him a Shipmate. I’d like to think that his attendance at the 2014 VAQ-133 Reunion was an event that was on his Bucket List. I’m glad I had the opportunity to see him one last time. We are all better having known Clyde and we will miss him dearly. Rest in peace Clyde.
Sincerely,
Gary & Yoshiko West

Larry Olsen
Sherwood, AR
Liked
Sunday, October 26, 2014

Excuse me for using a famous "Clyde" phrase; but "To make a long story short" we are going to miss you Clyde. During the 35+ years I knew you, you always had a positive attitude and effect on everyone. I am proud to have had you as a friend.

Jerry Johnson
Jacksonville,
Liked
Saturday, October 25, 2014

It has been a learning experience and pleasure to work with Clyde the past seven years. It is going to be difficult not to see his smiling face around Falcon Jet. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.