May 6, 1954 – February 22, 2023
Michael Tederel Byrd Sr. was born May 6th, 1954 in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Michael, along with his parents Mary Catherine and Herbert Byrd Sr., moved to Southern California in 1958. The family eventually settled in Gardena, CA. in 1963 and became members of Greater Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, CA, under the late Pastor A. W. Lott. At a young age, Michael accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior. Michael participated in the youth programs, Vacation Bible School and Sunday School. As an adult, Michael was an active member of the Men's Bible Study, Pastor's Bible Study, and Sunday School. As a young child, Michael became an active member of the Cub Scouts, Webelos, and Boy Scouts. His love for sports commenced at a young age with baseball at Rosecrans Park and Pop Warner Football where he played for the Gardena Meteors.
While attending Peary Jr. High School, Michael developed a passion for music where he learned how to play the Saxophone and participated in the Marching Band. His talents were not limited, and he also enjoyed building and constructing artwork. One of Michael's most notable handcrafted designs was a wooden treasure chest and a wooden coffee table he built for his mother.
Michael earned his High School Diploma in 1972 from Gardena High School where he played Jr. Varsity and Varsity football. In pursuit of higher education, Michael attended LA Harbor College where he earned an Associate Degree in 1974. During his time at LA Harbor, he also obtained a Private Pilot License from Compton Airport.
Michael attended Cal State Fullerton where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice in 1976. His first employment opportunity after graduation was with Crocker National Bank as a Data Processor. After applying to the Los Angeles Police Department and California Highway Patrol, Michael was accepted to the California Highway Patrol Academy in Sacramento, CA in March 1979.
In August of 1979, Michael graduated from the California Highway Patrol Academy and his first assignment was with the South Los Angeles California Highway Patrol office located in Torrance, CA. While working for the California Highway Patrol, Michael worked as a Court Officer, Background Investigator, Santa Fe Springs Highway Patrol Office, and Baldwin Park Highway Patrol Office where he finished out his career and retired in 2009.
Michael Sr. is preceded in death by his mother Mary Catherine Byrd.
He leaves to cherish his memories:
His Father: Herbert S. Byrd Sr. (Dorthy);
His Son: Michael Byrd Jr.,
His Soul Mate: Renee Copeland;
His Sisters: Terri Byrd Livingston (Donald Sr.)Beatrice Byrd Williams (Travon Sr.); Charlene Byrd;
His Brothers: Herbert Byrd Jr. (D'auita), Keith Ingram Byrd (Alicia);
The Copeland Family, The Darling Family, Mama Ellis, Mama Thompson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
On August 11, 1979, Michael and Deborah were married to this union Michael Tederel Jr. was born on October 16, 1982. He was a great father and enjoyed spending time with his son, traveling, fishing, attending sporting events, and eating out. He attended all of his son's sporting events and invited friends to join him.
In 1986 Michael met his soul mate, Renee Copeland. They were engaged to be married in 2023.
Michael inspired many with his daily scriptures text messages and encouraging words. He always took time for his friends and neighbors.
Michael Tederel Byrd, Sr.
To Michael Byrd Jr. ,
I accompanied your father Mike to one of your football games in Hampton Virginia ,
and throughout the game he was very vocal about how incredibly proud he was of you,
and your football skills.
I would like to send my deepest and sincere condolences to you and your family .
To my sister Renee ,
I’m deeply sorry for the loss of your soulmate Mike .
You complemented each other like no other couple I know.
May your precious memories bring you comfort.
Mike the last time we talked you said that you were going to be taking care of my sister Renee for the rest of her life.Only God knows when our time is up, and he called you unto himself. You are absent from the body and present with the Lord no more sickness or worries just peace love and joy unspeakable joy that only comes from God. I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to the Byrd family and loved ones during your time of bereavement God will comfort you.Beulah Copeland
Mike the last time we talked you said you were going to be taking care of my sister Renee for the rest of your life .Only God knows when our time is up and he called you unto himself.You are absent from the body and present with the Lord no more sickness or worries just peace love and joy,unspeakable joy that only comes from God.To the Byrd family and loved ones I extend my sincere sympathy God will continue to Bless and take care of you.