Betty Jean "GG" Byrd's Obituary
Betty Jean [Parish] Byrd, affectionately known as GG, passed away on September 2, 2024, in Fort Myers, FL, at the age of 90. Born in Ocoee, Florida, she spent much of her early childhood in the care of her grandmother, Ethel Kurtz, in the Sanford/Orlando area, which instilled in her a lifelong love for singing and performing.
Betty was a beloved matriarch whose life was dedicated to her family. As the eldest child during the Great Depression, she helped raise her siblings after moving to Merritt Island, FL. Her culinary skills were renowned, especially her "Boil Chocolate Cake," a favorite among all who knew her. Her home was always open to family and friends in need, embodying her nurturing spirit.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that is vividly remembered by her family and all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughters, Cheryle Lee [Larry Lee] and Dina Fontaine; sons, Richard E. Byrd Jr. [Robin] and Eric Byrd [Jennifer]; 15 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren. Her brother - John Parish; and sister- Gloria Parish Lunsford.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Richard Edward Byrd Sr.; son, Thomas Eugene Byrd; and son-in-law, Dusty Fontaine. Her parents Percy & Bessie [Thompson] Parish. Her siblings, Don Parish, Bobby Parish, Neal Parish and Sharon [Parish]Terrell.
A celebration of Betty's life will be held at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens on Saturday, October 5, at 11 am, followed by a reception. Her final resting place will be in the Garden at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, Fort Myers, FL.
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