Sandra Byrd

Sandra “Sandy” Byrd, beloved wife, mother, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and community spirit. She was 81 years old.

Born on May 14, 1944, Sandy was a longtime resident of Pleasant Hill in Russell County, Kentucky, where she was known as a vibrant and generous neighbor with a heart as big as her laugh. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Carl Byrd Jr. with whom she shared over 60 years of marriage. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and card games.

Sandy is survived by her two children: her daughter Tracy Byrd—affectionately known as the fabulous party girl—from Jupiter, Florida; and her son, Carl Byrd III of Georgetown, Kentucky. She is also survived by her sister, Cynthia Muhlenkamp of Celina, Ohio.

Sandy wore many hats throughout her life—homemaker, devoted wife, mother, friend, and even Avon representative for many years in the community. But perhaps she was best known for the things that don’t go on a résumé: baking the most memorable birthday cakes on the ridge, hosting neighborhood Yahtzee tournaments and rummy games, and keeping spirits high with her quick wit and bright smile.

A lover of bowling and card games, Sandy found joy in the everyday moments—especially those spent with her best friend, Sue Barr, playing rummy and sharing stories. Though she had not held a driver’s license for sometime, she was still regarded as one of the best drivers in the neighborhood—a fact that those who knew her will smile about for years to come.

Sandy will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, her sense of fun, and her ability to make anyone feel at home. Her presence lit up every room she entered, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

A celebration of Sandy’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to gather your friends, play a game of rummy, and raise a glass to a life well-lived.