Richard Lee Byrd

Richard Byrd — lovingly known as “Papaw”
Richard Byrd, 72, of Huntington, West Virginia, passed away on March 5,2026, in the same town where his story began. Rick built a life here rooted in loyalty, laughter, faith, and unwavering love for God, his family, and community.He was the son of Otis Lee Byrd and Hope Byrd, and a devoted brother to David Byrd and Kaye Byrd, who remain with us, and to Connie Byrd Mark Byrd and Steve Byrd, who preceded him in death. 

Rick carried a deep sense of responsibility for his family and spent much of his life not only as a brother, but as a steady caretaker and protector to those he loved. To most, he was simply “Papaw.” Not just to his own grandchildren — but to just about everyone who needed one. He was there for anyone who needed him, whether that was a hug, fatherly guidance, or just a ride home. Long after others stopped picking up hitchhikers, Rick still did (much to the woe of all the women who loved him). That was just who he was —endlessly giving, stubbornly kind, and unapologetically himself. A faithful church man, Richard was known for delivering the most beautiful closing prayers. His deep baritone voice brought a soulful sound to every hymn he sang. His faith was a core part of his life — the kind of Christian who lived it more than he spoke it. Rick was a devoted husband to Paula (Plybon) Byrd for 55 years. Their love and care for one another inspired many and helped people continue to believe in true love. He was a proud father to his son, Richard Byrd II, of Michigan, and his daughter, Billie (Byrd) Short of Columbus, Ohio, and her husband, Keith. He was an amazing Papaw to his grandchildren, Morgan Stephens-Nairnand her husband Paul, and Molly Stephens (Billie), and to Maddox, Whitley, Rick, and Sabine (Rick). The Byrd family tradition continues through the generations, and the middle name “Lee” — carried by his father — now lives on again in his great-grandson, Bodhi Lee. He was also preceded in death by his nephews, PW Byrd and Michael Reynolds. A proud union man and industrial mechanic at the nickel plant, Richard believed in hard work and standing up to the man. He carried that same steady strength into every part of his life — dependable, loyal, and never afraid to speak his mind. His grandchildren will never forget the day he embarrassed them at the zoo by roaring loudly at the lions in front of a hundred strangers just to see if they would roar back. They did not. Richard Byrd leaves behind a legacy of generosity, faith, and love beyond measure. He was a true friend, a steady presence, a fisherman, a guiding hand, and proof that you don’t have to be polished to be powerful — you just have to be authentic, and a little ornery.He will be missed deeply, remembered loudly, and loved always. 

Funeral services will be conducted on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 2pm by Pastor Doug Burdette at the Reger Funeral Chapel, Huntington. Burial will follow in the Maple Hill Section of Dock's Creek Cemetery, Kenova, WV. Friends may call from 1 pm until service time on Sunday at Reger Funeral Home, Huntington.