Ellen Byrd - Obituary

llen Williams Byrd, a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, transitioned peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Friday, April 18, 2025. Born in the District of Columbia on January 23, 1939, to the late Al Williams and Helen Thomas Williams, she was the seventh of nine children. Ellen married the late Otis N. Byrd Sr. on August 28, 1958. Ellen received her education through the District of Columbia Public Schools. Her first career as a wife and full-time mother to her nine children was deeply fulfilling. After her youngest child began elementary school, she pursued a second career in nursing, working at several facilities including Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington, D.C., Carrol Manor in Hyattsville, MD, and J.B. Johnson in Washington, D.C. Recognized as a dedicated and conscientious worker, Ellen was forced to retire early due to a work injury. Following the passing of her daughter JoAnn, she embraced the role of full-time caregiver to her grandchildren, raising them until they became teenagers and moved in with their Aunt Yolanda. Ellen accepted Christ during her early years and later renewed her faith. She was a member of New Season Ministries Church in Laurel, MD. A compassionate, thoughtful, and loving person, Ellen cherished the company of her family and friends. On weekends, she delighted in attending family cookouts, birthday parties, baby showers, and even gatherings to watch football games, despite her limited knowledge of the sport. Always ready for an adventure, she really enjoyed car rides. In addition, she enjoyed sitting on the front porch, people-watching, and listening to old time gospel music. Ellen’s light will forever shine upon her family. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of 107 descendants as well as a host of nieces and nephews. She is survived by her eight children: daughters Priscilla R. Pierre (Jean), Frances A. Byrd, and Yolanda Y. Kenrick (Adrain); sons Otis N. Byrd Jr., Kenneth E. Byrd Sr., Walter A. Byrd, Kevin Byrd, and Frederick W. Byrd; as well as 25 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, and 18 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Addie L. Hall (the late Dr. Leroy Hall) and her devoted niece Druscilla R. Robinson (Becky). Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Al and Helen Williams; her husband, Otis N. Byrd Sr.; her daughter, JoAnn Elizabeth Byrd; one grandson, Kenneth E. Byrd Jr.; two great-grandsons, Desimon “Julio” Richardson and Nathaniel Hampton III; and siblings Reatha Ames, Weaver Williams, Albert Junior Williams, Henry P. Williams, Pearlie Mae Waddell, Nelson L. Williams, and Dorvella L. Alexander. Relatives and friends are invited to Ellen's Life Celebration on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the start of the service at 11 A.M. at Southeast Tabernacle Baptist Church, 4101 1st St SE #31, Washington, DC 20032. Interment to follow at Harmony Memorial Park, 7101 Sheriff Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20785. Flowers may be sent to the Church. Please use a local florist.