Jean Baxter Byrd of Sneads, Florida passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2020. She was born on December 29, 1943 in Marianna, Florida to Julius and Haley Baxter. Jean was a lifelong resident of Jackson County. After graduation from high school Jean went to work at Florida State Hospital, launching a long career that included many years of dedicated service to the State of Florida. Jean retired from Florida State Hospital as a Medical Unit Supervisor. In 1968, she married the love of her life, Joe Byrd and together they raised two daughters Selisa and Selena. Jean was a kind, generous person who loved reading, shopping and for many years, hanging out with her pals Bea and Jessie enjoying coffee over lengthy discussions at the old Red Top Restaurant. She loved her friends and family, but most of all her grandchildren and great grandchildren; she considered them her greatest accomplishment. Jean always looked forward to visits from family and friends. She was a woman of faith and lived life serving others. Jean was an inspiration to all who knew her, and she will be missed greatly.
Jean is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, Joe Byrd; two daughters, Selisa Bennett and her husband Joe and Selena Goodwin and her husband Jody; three grandchildren, Haley Burdeshaw (Stephen), Zach Goodwin (Emily), Nick Goodwin (Gracelyn); four great grandchildren, Sadie Jo, Aubree Jean, Brett and Charles; and a lifelong special friend, Bea Sale.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Charles Baxter and a longtime special friend, Jessie Braddy.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made in Mrs. Jean’s name to Sneads First United Methodist Church ~ PO Box 642 Sneads, FL 32460
Due to the ongoing concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, a private family graveside service will be held at Pope Cemetery on Friday, July 17, 2020 with Rev. Albert Byrd and Rev. Mike von Keyserling officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing.
