Thomas (Tommy) Harold Byrd, age 74, of Early, Texas, passed away Thursday, August 17, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family. Born March 29, 1943, in Merkel, Texas, he was the son of the late Harold Lloyd West and Katherine Naomi (Mashburn) Byrd. Tommy graduated from Rising Star High School in 1961 where he met his wife, Reta Gale O’Connor. They married on June 24, 1961 in Rising Star, Texas.

Tommy retired from 3M in 2005 after 25 years of service.  During his lifetime Tommy provided for his family through various additional careers and was a “jack of many trades.”  He began in 1965 as a clerk at the Post Office.  He was a residential home builder and contractor by trade, business owner, real estate broker, and city manager of Early.  Additionally, he wore numerous hats in service to his community.  Tommy, as a Master Mason, proudly advanced to Scottish Rite 32 degree.  He was actively involved as a member of Early First Baptist Church where he served as deacon, Sunday School teacher, assistant treasurer, usher, greeter, and participated on numerous committees.   He served as president of Brownwood Board of Realtors, president of Cen-Tex Credit Union, and board member of Cen-Tex Credit Union for 15 years.  In his later years he volunteered at Meals on Wheels and at Good Samaritan Ministries as a helper and board member.  He loved spending time with his granddaughters and traveling with family and friends.

Tommy is survived by his wife of 56 years, Reta; son, Chad Byrd and wife Rosa; daughter, Kerri Jacobson and husband Raymond; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Audri, Myra, Mitchell, and Justin; sister, Katy Cook and husband J.C.; and numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews.  Tommy was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 20, 2017 at Early First Baptist Church at 2:30 pm.  A Masonic burial ceremony will follow at Blake Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 pm on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Heartland Funeral Home in Early, Texas.

Online Condolences may be left for the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net