Richard Glynn Byrd

Richard Glynn Byrd was born on September 9, 1948, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, to Wilbur Byrd and Clothilde Whatley Byrd. On March 10, 2025, he transitioned to his eternal home in Dallas, Texas.

Rick graduated from Lee High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 1966. He played tuba in the marching band and was proud to be on the basketball team. After high school, he worked in various fields as a cook at Denny's, in construction, and in masonry before deciding to pursue higher education. His hard work and determination led him to Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting in the fall of 1976.

In the late 1970s, Rick moved to Dallas, Texas and embarked on a successful career in accounting. During the 1980s, he worked at Richland College before serving for 15 years as an Accounting Manager at the Boys Scouts of America corporate office in Irving, Texas. In 2002, he took on a role as a customer service representative at Reef Exploration in Richardson, Texas where fate brought him to his future wife, Vanessa. Their connection was instant, a love that blossomed into a beautiful relationship, culminating in marriage on February 16, 2013. Rick's career continued to reflect his passion for service and people. He thrived while working at various 24-Hour Fitness locations, where his enthusiasm for health and wellness was undeniable. He later served as a Service Advisor for Caliber Collision Headquarters in Lewisville, Texas, before retiring in 2013.

In his well-earned retirement, Rick embraced life with the same dedication and enthusiasm he had always shown. He treasured reconnecting with old college friends, reminiscing about the past while sharing stories and laughter. Whether through phone calls, visits, or messages, he valued those friendships and the memories they carried. Movies and television shows became another favorite pastime. Through it all, his retirement years were filled with the things he loved family, friendship, football, and relaxation. It was a time of reflection, enjoyment, and connection, a well-deserved chapter that allowed him to savor the life he had built. He was also a proud supporter of Tunnel to Towers Foundation for to severely injured veterans and first responders.

His nickname, "Gym Bob," was born out of a playful exchange with his bonus daughter, Harriett, who greeted him one day with, "What's up, Gym Bob?" The name stuck, and in turn, he playfully called her "Jim Bob." Eventually, Vanessa became "Gem Bob" because, in Rick's words, she was the rare jewel he had found.

Faith played a central role in Rick's life. He had a deep love for God that was instilled within him at an early age. Rick was dedicated to studying the Bible and reading it cover to cover in his later years. But beyond his faith, his true passion was fitness. For over 40 years, he proudly earned the title of "Gym Rat," dedicating himself to health and exercise. Even in retirement, he remained committed, walking on the treadmill and lifting light weights at least five days a week, always with his headphones on, immersed in music. Rick also had a deep love for sports, especially college football, cheering loudly for his beloved LSU Tigers-Geaux Tigers! The holidays were another source of joy for him, filled with food, laughter, family, and of course, an endless love for desserts.

Rick's love, kindness, strength, and compassion were evident in every aspect of his life. He was not only a devoted husband, father, and grandfather but also a cherished friend to many. His presence left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Rick was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert Byrd. Those left to honor and cherish his memory include his wife, Vanessa Byrd; his son Chris Byrd, his sisters, Sandra McWaters (Rex) and Suzanne Byrd; his bonus daughters, Harriett Hardamon and Victoria Wilson; his bonus grandchildren, Blake Hardamon and Serenity Wilson; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Rick's legacy of love, faith, and dedication to the family and fitness will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Though he is no longer physically with us, his spirit will continue to inspire us all.

All are welcome to join us via live stream on this memorial page at

1:00 PM on SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 2025,

as we celebrate the life of our beloved Richard. Click the link below:

Celebration of Life for Richard Glynn Byrd

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