Ms. Joycelyn Meredith Byrd, 80 years of age, was a Mississippi born native who spent many years in Oklahoma. Ms. Byrd retired to South Carolina, and returned to the place she called home, Gufport, Mississippi, where she entered into her final rest Monday, January 27, 2020.

Ms. Byrd was born April 2, 1939 to Mr. Thomas B. Evans, Jr. and Mrs. Gladys W. Evans, both of Gulfport, Mississippi. She was reared in the admonition of Christ and her commitment to the Christian faith was immovable. In her early years, as she traveled, she was sure to unite with like minded believers. During her time in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Ms. Byrd held membership with St. Luke United Methodist Church and Western Hills Baptist Church. After moving to Carolina, she was received, as a member, into Elevation Church, located in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Ms. Byrd lived a life that was indicative of the mysterious, yet extraordinary woman described in the book of Proverbs:

"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies... She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands... She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household... She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms... She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy... She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness."

Ms. Byrd lived a life that was pleasing to the Lord. She was spirit filled, courageous, and bold. She loved through action. If there was ever anything that Ms. Byrd could do for those in need, she would do it, without expectations of receiving anything in return. The works of her hands spoke volumes of her dedication, ethics and integrity. Retiring from the Veterans Administration Hospital, as a Medical Technician and then again from the St. Anthony Hospital, as a Cardiac Monitor Technician, both located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Ms. Byrd modeled for her family the value of hard work:. Whether for enjoyment or for added income, Ms. Byrd loved to crochet and knit garments. Many say that she was an expert.

"...Her children arise up, and call her blessed..."

The book of Proverbs confirms for us that this mysterious woman offers words of wisdom, is generous, is not idol, and does all that is needed to ensure that her family is secure. While the family of Ms. Byrd is saddened at her departure, they rejoice, for they were blessed to have found and shared time and space on Earth with this VIRTUOUS woman.

"...Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates."

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Evans, Jr.; one brother, Thomas B. Evans, III; four sisters, Doris West, Jackie Evans, Cynthia Evans, and Angela Evans.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories, her children, Vincent Williams- Gulfport, Mississippi, Jake Evans, Esq. (Monica)- Charlotte, North Carolina, Carmel Evans- Gulfport, Mississippi; eight sisters, Lettie Evans Caldwell- Gulfport, Mississippi, Shirley Pleasure- San Antonio, Texas, Gloria (RC) Allen- Inglewood, California, Sandra Magee- Guflport, Mississippi, Constance Daughtery- Oxon Hill, Maryland, Wanda Payano- Los Angeles, California, Daffena Hamilton- Gulfport, Mississippi, Stephne Williams- Jackson, Mississippi; 10 grandchildren, Antoine, Chris, Renetta, Larry, Pitres (PA), Leigha, Kaylon, Johnathan, Jerilyn, Zoe, Richard, Ella; six great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.