Martha Nell Byrd

Martha Nell Byrd, of Jenkins, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on August 2, 1942, in Jenkins to the late T.J. and Julie Harrell Quarles, she grew up in East Texas, graduating from high school in Daingerfield. She went on to attend Kilgore College and Stephen F. Austin University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics in 1964. Later in life, she obtained a certification in Special Education from Texarkana College, deepening her commitment to serving others.

Martha dedicated twenty years to the Atlanta Independent School District as a Special Education teacher. Known for her patience, compassion, and steadfast dedication, she touched the lives of countless students and retired after two decades of faithful service to her school and community. She found deep joy in the simple blessings of life, particularly gardening alongside her husband and canning the vegetables they grew together. Time spent with family and tending her garden brought her great happiness. A faithful member of South Union Missionary Baptist Church, she lived with quiet strength, kindness, and devotion to those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Lester Byrd; her son, Michael Byrd; her sister, Rita Faye; her parents, T.J. Quarles and stepmother Lois Quarles; her mother, Julia Patterson; stepbrother Ralph Robertson; and numerous extended family members.

Martha is survived by her loving son, Jimmy Byrd and wife Christie Byrd; her cherished granddaughter, Hailey Byrd Hanna and husband Dylan Hanna; her sister, Joyce Richey; her brother, Dearl Quarles and wife Sandra; stepbrothers Gerald Roberson and Roger Henderson; surviving in-laws Dois and Carolyn Byrd, Loarn and Ann Byrd, Anthony and Edith Sexton, and Willie Byrd; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly.