Ronald Alan Byrd passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, while worship music filled his room and family sat at his side.

Ronald was born on May 3, 1959, in St, Louis, MO to Harold and Marie Byrd. He grew up on a farm in Iowa, which inspired a lifelong love of agriculture that led him to earn a degree in the field from Western Illinois University. He spent many years working on farms in Ursa, Oakford, and Carthage, Illinois.

It was on a farm in Ursa where he met the love of his life while serving as the crew boss of her detasseling group. They married on September 18, 1982- they married young and built a life centered on faith, love, and raising their four children.

After his years in farming, Ronald began a 28-year career at Prince Minerals in Quincy, Illinois. He worked tirelessly to support his family, instilling a strong work ethic in each of his children.

Following his retirement, Ronald became a substitute teacher at Unity High School, where he had graduated in 1977. He loved his role as “Mr. Byrd,” also known as “Mr. Lumberjack,” and took great joy in seeing former students in the community and hearing them call out his name.

He loved volunteering for the Quincy Senior Center. He was Angie’s co pilot on many bus tours. Where he got to see many new places and meet wonderful friends that he kept in contact with. He also volunteered driving the bus for several senior outings, and he enjoyed being a VITA Income Tax preparer for the Senior Center.

Ronald is a beloved Papa. He loved every minute that he got to spend with his grandchildren. He was incredibly proud of the title and took his job of spoiling them very seriously- making sure to instill his love of ice cream in them.

Ronald also dedicated time to the Fellowship of the Carpenters, helping rebuild areas affected by storms. He deeply valued this ministry and the skills and relationships he gained through it.

A man of strong faith, Ronald served as an elder at the Federated Church of Lima. He was passionate about following Christ’s calling in his life. He also loved singing in church—his strong, joyful voice often drew the attention of those around him and brought smiles to his family sitting beside him.

He is preceded in death by his son Justin Byrd, his parents, and his brother Robert Byrd.

He is survived by his wife Angie Byrd of Loraine, IL. His children: Alyssa Uppinghouse (Adam), Kelsie McVicker (Matt), and Mikayla Byrd. His grandchildren: Levi, Anika, and Lucy, His siblings: Harold Byrd Jr. of Ursa, IL, Donald Byrd (Amy) of Quincy, IL, and Kathlene Murphy (Donald) of Monroe City, MO.

Funeral Services for Ron will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the Crossing Church, 2902 State Highway 96, Lima, Illinois. Rev. Walt Wilcoxson will officiate. In accordance with Ron’s wishes, he will be cremated following the service.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the J. Otto Funeral Home in Mendon. Memorials may be made to the Ron Byrd Memorial Fund.