Kathleen Marie Byrd

Kathleen Byrd, 86, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt, passed away on December 28, 2020. In 1934, she was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to a pair of Irish parents who produced four children: Jack, Margie, Kathleen, and Jimmy. Kathleen was a confident beauty who attracted the attention of many, but it was Carl Eugene Byrd who whisked her into a whirlwind marriage which took her across the world, from France to Louisiana, before settling down in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She is survived by her daughter, Dr. Diane Lacen, her best friend. Michael Byrd, her son, would possess her gift of gab, but it was drumming that would lead him into a life of rock and roll. Kathleen knew no stranger. Everybody was welcomed at her house. If she was out, she’d be with Diane at the movie theater (her favorite place), at lunch with her best friend Adell Gulsvig, with her grandkids and great grandkids (whom she was like a second mother to), or with her nieces, Kim Cascio and Kelly Williams. Kathleen passed away at her daughter’s house, surrounded by family— but when you leave such an everlasting impact on those around you, you’re never truly away. She was preceded in death by her husband, son, and granddaughter. A private family ceremony will be held.