Grace Byrd, 100, of New Haven, entered eternal rest on April 1, 2026.

Born in Forsyth, Georgia, on November 27, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Emanuel Byrd and Marguerite Byrd.

Prior to her retirement, Ms. Byrd was employed by the former Winchester Repeating Arms Company (Olin). She was a member of St. Matthew’s UFWB Church in New Haven for over 50 years.

Ms. Byrd leaves to cherish her loving memory her granddaughters, Desiree Byrd Mayes and Denise Smith; her great-grandchildren, Bennie Mayes, Tamika Byrd, Derek Rawls, and Shawn Smith; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Margaret L. Jones, and her siblings, Walter Byrd, Albert Byrd, and Sadie Byrd.

A celebration of her life and legacy will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at St. Matthew’s UFWB Church, 400 Dixwell Avenue, New Haven. Family and friends may attend a viewing at the church from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.