Jean Wallace Byrd

Mrs. Jean Wallace Byrd, age 86, of Raleigh Road in Benson, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at SECU Hospice House in Smithfield.

Born on September 3, 1939 in Johnston County, Jean was the daughter of the late Arthur and Virginia Dunn Wallace. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred T. Byrd; her son, Chris Byrd; and her sisters, Peggy Smith, Barbara Byrd, and Judy Blackman.

Jean enjoyed a long career with Johnston County Social Services before retiring. A faithful Christian, she was a longtime member of St. Mary’s Grove Original Freewill Baptist Church in Benson, where she served as long as her health allowed. She found great joy in gardening, tending her yards, and taking walks with her friends. Above all, she cherished her family and was lovingly known as “Nana” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her son, Mike Byrd and his wife, Kim; grandchildren, Christie Mitchell and husband Jeffery, Dusty Byrd and wife Keri, Jennifer Capps and husband Adam, Jordan Byrd and wife Deanna, and Brandon Byrd; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.