John Preston “Big John” Byrd

May 4, 1966 – June 11, 2023

A loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend went to his eternal home on Sunday, June 11, 2023. He was 57 years old and a proud graduate of the Louisiana School for the Deaf, in 1984. John was an avid fan of Star Wars, Star Trek and anything that pertained to science but he especially loved trains and spending time with his family and friends. He leaves behind to cherish his memories his mother, Dorothy Byrd; his wife of 20 years, Yolanda Byrd; daughter, Marguerite; two sons, Robert and David and wife Savannah; grandson, River; two sisters, Debbie Cormier and husband Brent, Angela Kaplan and husband Mitch; two nieces, Natasha, Alexis; three nephews, Erik, Garrett and Cooper and numerous great nieces, nephews and many friends. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Honorary pallbearers are, Robert Rodriguez, David Rodriguez, Erik Peatross, Garrett Kaplan, Cooper Cormier, Karl Begnaud and Elvist Tabor, Jr. He was preceded in death by his father, John Monroe Byrd and his uncle, Doyle Byrd. Services will take place at Istrouma Baptist Church in the student building on August 19, 2023 from 10 AM-12 PM with memorial service starting at 12 PM. Please wear anything green or a star wars shirt if planning to attend the service. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Cat Haven, 11130 N. Harrells Ferry Rd. Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Condolences may be offered at