Claude Edward Byrd, 95, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away August 15, 2023, at Wesley Medical Center.

Born March 28, 1928, near Chelsea, Oklahoma, he was the son of Alfred Hurdy and Lillie (Grimes) Byrd.  The family moved to Anthony, Kansas, where Claude graduated from high school in 1946.  Following school, Claude joined the United States Army.  He proudly served his country as a paratrooper and worked in the postal service until his honorable discharge.

Claude married Mary Ann Gresty in 1955.  To this union, six children were born and the couple later divorced.  Claude worked as a mechanic at General Electric for 25 years, retiring in 1988.  Following retirement, Claude worked as a bus driver.

He was a member of Millington Street Baptist Church.  He enjoyed riding his "motorcycle", playing Dominoes, drinking coffee, socializing at various places around town, and eating at Long John Silvers.  He loved traveling and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

His family includes his children, Karen Crane of Winfield; Sheryl Wilson and husband, Dwain of Silver Lake; Edward Byrd and wife, Sheryl of Topeka; Jerry Byrd of Winfield; Nancy Mikesell and husband, Roy of Winfield; his sister Mary Lou Hostetter of El Dorado, AR; and 15 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, and eight great-great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Claude was preceded in death by a son David, and seven brothers, Lloyd, Roy, Troy, Vernon, Gene, Wayne, and Carl.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Friday, August 25, 2023, at Miles Funeral Service.  Private interment will take place in Chelsea, Oklahoma at a later date.

Memorials have been established in Claude's name for Friendship Meals and for Millington Street Baptist Church. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.

Services for Claude will be livestreamed and may be viewed at the following link: