George Byers Jr.

George Byers Jr. passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Elkhart, Indiana, on March 6, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born on December 16, 1937, in South Bend, Indiana, to George and Anabelle (Mayberry) Byers, he was the third of four children. He held a deep and fierce love for his siblings—Mable Taylor, John Byers, and Ruby Patterson—all of whom preceded him in death.

Growing up in an era that presented many challenges for Black men, George remained defined by his strong work ethic, compassion, and determination. From a young age he supported his family by selling ice from his bicycle, setting pins at bowling alleys, and washing dishes in restaurants. His drive also shone in athletics; a proud graduate of South Bend Central High School, he excelled in mathematics and set a football record with 8.5 yards per carry. In his youth he dreamed of becoming a singer, often performing on street corners with friends during the era of Junior Walker and the All-Stars.

George worked at several companies including Platt’s Trailer, the Studebaker Plant, and Frangs Gas Company before retiring from Selmer after 37 years. At Selmer he became the first Black member of the Bargaining Committee and served as Union Steward, helping shape HR policies, contract negotiations, and the hiring of many Black employees. He met Willie Jean Bryson at the roller rink, and they married soon afterward. Together they raised six children: Stephanie Elaine (Ernest) Hodnett of Indianapolis, George Lee (Alfraretta) Byers Sr. of Elkhart, Vicki Lynn (Sam) Jerideau of Charleston, South Carolina, John Avery (Ruth) Byers of Elkhart, Robert Jerome Byers of Greensboro, North Carolina, and Adrian Allan (Joetta) Byers of Elkhart. They also had one child who passed away at birth. George took great pride in supporting his children, who in turn loved and adored him.

He is survived by his cousin Junita Pearson of Los Angeles, California, all of his children, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. George was an avid sports fan who loved roller skating, bowling, playing cards, and watching Westerns. Kind and gentle, he possessed a warm sense of humor and a beautiful smile that could brighten any room. To know him was to love him, and he was loved beyond words.