On August 19, 2025, Cora R. Byrd age 92 departed this earthly realm to reunite with loved ones who have gone on before her. She was looking forward to celebrating her 93rd birthday on September 29, 2025, with her loved ones. God keeps his promises Isaiah 46:4. She led a full life with all of its ups, downs and sideways.

She leaves behind 2 sisters to share many fond memories: Lois Johnson & Margie Gray and sisters-in-law Margaret (aka Peggy Fortune) and Voncie Fortune, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and extended families.

She was preceded in death by her husband- Thomas Floyd Byrd, her ex-husband Clarence Eugene Johnson, Jr. with whom she had 2 children Lola and Mona Johnson, mother: Alberta Byrd Fortune, father: Benjamin Harrison Fortune, brothers: Benjamin, Garnett (a.k.a. Ronnie), Landridge, Daniel and Herman, sisters: Doris Celeste Byrd, Gloria Rollins.

Her sister Martha M. Lumpkin passed August 29, 2025, to share the journey with her.

Cora attended Essex County school system and graduated. Upon moving to N.J. she worked in the textile industry in Harrison, N.J. 07029.

Moving back to King & Queen County VA. she worked at Union Envelope in Richmond VA. where she retired.

She loved her flowers, birds, riding her lawn mower.  Visits from family and friends kept a smile on her face. Most of all she LOVED her church family where she served as a Deaconess at St. Stephens Baptist Church, 29436 Sparta Rd, Milford VA. 22514, 804 633-9353.

She also had an earthly companion, alarm clock, foot massager, greeter and listener-namely: Her dog Mercedes, who will miss their talks and walks.  She found great joy in the simple things, especially the thoughtful check-in calls, you know who you are.

Her 3 favorite songs were: Amazing Grace, Take my hand Precious Lord (a.k.a. Precious Lord take my hand) and In the Garden.

In lieu of flowers you may donate to St. Stephens Baptist Church, in remembrance of Cora R. Byrd, a charity of your choosing or do a kind gesture preferably visit our seniors that may be lonely or sick and shut-in.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at St Stephens Baptist Church, 29436 Sparta Road, Milford, Virginia 22514, with a viewing one hour prior to the service.

Interment will follow in the church cemetery.