Robert Louis Byrd, 66, eased into the arms of God surrounded by his family and friends on February 26, 2009. A native of Nansemond County, he is survived by his wife of 46 years, Mary Agnes J. Byrd; his three children, Linda C. Byrd-Masters and husband Jim, Joseph D. Byrd and wife Colleen, and Jonathan L. Byrd; and his two grandsons, Travis J. Masters and Cooper D. Byrd, all of Suffolk. He is also survived by his sisters, Evelyn Hardy, Mary Hedgebeth, Dot Powell, Joyce Bracey, all of Suffolk, VA, and Jean Powell of Mechanicsville. He was predeceased in life by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Byrd, Sr. of Suffolk, an infant son, an infant granddaughter, and one brother, Joseph M. Byrd, Jr. of Surry County. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and other dear family members and friends.

He was employed as a professional truck driver for 38 years by Univar, formerly Suffolk Chemical, Inc. He was a graduate with the Class of '60 of Holland High School in Nansemond County, and following school, he served in the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne Division of Fort Bragg, NC as a paratrooper. He was a life-long member of Bethlehem Christian Church and the Joyce Ann Harrell Sunday School Class. He also served on the Building Fund Committee.

A funeral service will be held Sunday, March 1, 2009 at 2 p.m. at Bethlehem Christian Church with Rev. Jonathan Palmer officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors. Friends may join the family Saturday night from 7-8 p.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory, 3515 Robs Dr., Suffolk, VA and other times at the residence. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, Suffolk Chapter at 604 Constance Woods Dr., Suffolk, VA 23434. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com