Martha Nell Quarles Byrd

Martha Nell Byrd, of Jenkins, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at the age of 83.

Martha was born on August 2, 1942, in Jenkins, Texas, to the late T.J. and Julie Harrell Quarles. She grew up in East Texas and graduated from high school in Daingerfield. She later attended Kilgore College and continued her education at Stephen F. Austin University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics (‘64). Later in life, Martha furthered her calling to serve others by obtaining a certification in Special Education from Texarkana College.

Martha dedicated 20 years of her life to the Atlanta Independent School District, where she worked in Special Education. She was known for her patience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to helping her students succeed. Her work touched many lives, and she retired after two decades of faithful service to the school and her community.

Martha found great joy in the simple blessings of life. She loved gardening alongside her husband and took pride in canning the vegetables they grew together. Time spent with family and tending to her garden brought her immense happiness.
She was also a faithful member of South Union Missionary Baptist Church.

She is survived by her loving son, Jimmy Byrd and wife Christie Byrd; her cherished granddaughter, Hailey Byrd Hanna and husband Dylan Hanna; her sister, Joyce Richey; her brother, Dearl Quarles and wife Sandra, stepbrothers Gerald Roberson and Roger Henderson. Surviving in-laws include Dois and Carolyn Byrd, Loarn and Ann Byrd, Anthony and Edith Sexton, and Willie Byrd; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Lester Byrd; her son, Michael Byrd; her sister, Rita Faye; her parents, T.J. Quarles and stepmother Lois Quarles, stepbrother Ralph Robertson and Mother Julia Patterson; and numerous extended family members.

Martha will be remembered for her kindness, dedication to her family, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life. Her legacy of love, service, and devotion will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all caregivers who devoted their time to caring for Martha.

A memorial service will be held Monday March 23rd, 2026 in the chapel of Reeder-Davis Funeral Home in Hughes Springs at 10 a.m. with her niece Tammy Whitehurst officiating. In lieu of flowers, please direct your support to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.