Robert Louis Byrd Sr.

Ret. Lt. Col. Robert Louis "Bob" Byrd Sr. went to be with his Savior on Sunday, January 13, 2019. He was born July 22, 1929 in Georgiana Alabama to Emmett & Estelle McClure Byrd. He was preceded by his parents, four sisters and three brothers. He is survived by his wife Cora Collen & his two sons, Robert "Bob" Byrd Jr. (Angela) & Wesley Byrd. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. Bob graduated from Central High School. He attended Little Rock College which later became UALR. He joined the army and fought in the Korean War. After the war he went in the Marine Reserves and worked for an engineering firm in Little Rock. He then joined the Air Force where he received his wings. He was then in the Air Force National Guard & flew jets his entire career. He married the love of his life Colleen Swann on May 5th, 1955 in Little Rock. In 1959 they moved to North Little Rock. Bob was a member of Lakewood Methodist Church where he played many roles. He was a man of great faith. He loved his family and knew no strangers. He would go out of his way for anyone and he took care of many. He was an officer and a gentleman that will be missed dearly by everyone that knew him. In keeping with his love of helping others, Bob donated his body for scientific research. A memorial service, with full military honors, will be held at Lakewood United Methodist Church (1922 Topf Rd., NLR) on Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at 1 p.m., with a reception to follow. In Lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Disabled Veterans Association or the Wounded Warrior Program.