Betty Byrd

Betty Byrd was the daughter of the late Drusilla and John Byrd Sr.; born on April 2nd,1936, in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She was the middle sibling of six children: two brothers, Elwood “BROTHER” & John Jr. and three sisters: Carolyn, Janice and Julie.

Her formative years was spent at Indiana Avenue Elementary School in Atlantic City, and as young girl, Betty was quite reserved, soft-spoken at times, creative and very talented. Growing up, Betty often would be found running around with her elder brothers or strolling down the boardwalk with her sister Janice, exploring and finding little trinkets, treasures, or keepsake items.

The late 1940s would bring the unexpected loss of her mother and father; With the loss, Betty and her sisters would be raised by her aunt Lyda, Melissa & Pernell. Through unconditional love, and a strong commitment to family, Betty learned the importance of savoring every moment of life. Being the pillars in Betty’s life, her aunt’s engrained in her values of selflessness, kindness, joy and humility.

Betty graduated from Washington Irving High School. She was an avid reader, loving all genres but her favorite was mysteries and science fiction. Betty’s adventurous nature, had her discover, learn and study discipline at the University of Judo in 1962, earning the ranking of Gokyu.

As an adult, Betty worked at Pan Am, Brazilian Airlines & New York Power Authority as an Executive Secretary for the past 40 years and was able to travel the world. Her career afforded her the opportunities to see some of the world’s breathtaking destinations such as Madrid, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas, Brazil, London & Paris.

One of Betty’s favorite things to do would be sharing time with her sister Janice. They traveled all over the city attending various concerts at Radio City Music Hall, The Apollo Theater and other venues. When family needed help Betty was the caretaker, she was the Big Sister, the auntie, the cousin you can depend on, and always did it with a smile.

In the late 70's, Betty lived in Franklin Plaza and was introduced to Rupert Pickering by her neighbor Ms. Hayes. For the next 50 years, they became companions, fell in love and remained at one another's side. Betty was a lover of the arts, and a philanthropist, donating to various charities such as St. Jude’s & Shriner’s Children Hospital, World Wildlife Fund and PBS.

Betty was a loving companion, an amazing sister, and a nurturing and fun aunt! Although Betty did not have any children of her own, she took joy and pride in raising her nieces and nephews.

Betty is survived by her sister Janice, her partner Rupert, her niece Carolyn, three nephews: Darryl, Greg & Christian, her two great nieces, Tionna & Kellie, her six great nephews, Kamel, Corey, Nicholas, Tyler, Brandon, Brian, great-great nieces & nephews Julia, Marli Justin, Christian Jr., Trevor and Bogart.

We will always remember you, Betty- your infectious smile and laughter lights up the heavens. We love you, but God loves you best with precious memories we celebrate your life.

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