James Clifford Byers

James Clifford Byers, 73 of Big Island, died November 17, 2023, surrounded by his family after a courageous and hard-fought battle against Multiple Myeloma.   He was born in Bedford, Virginia on May 9, 1950 to the late John and Daisy Byers.  He was also preceded in death by his sister, Beverly Buchanan.  Jimmy was an active member of Hunting Creek Baptist Church.  He served 4 years in the US Navy; with 2 of those years being aboard the USS Shreveport. He retired as Crew Leader of No. 3 Paper Machine, after 44 years of employment at Georgia Pacific.  During his retirement, Jimmy enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren who would never let him win a game of Old Maid, Uno or Monopoly. Jimmy is survived by his wife Darnell after 54 wonderful years of marriage; two daughters, Julie Baty and husband Herb, Selena Phillips and husband Kevin; 3 grandchildren, Sydney, Carter and Allie Phillips who gave him the nickname “Snug” and were the center of his world; two brothers, Benny Byers, Gary Byers and wife Sherry; a sister, Valerie Tomlinson and husband Glenn; brothers-in-law, Brad Buchanan, Dennis Turpin and wife Sheila, and many nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by his faithful dog Bodee, who was always by his side.  A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, November 20, 2023 at Hunting Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Kenneth Bledsoe officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., on Sunday at Hunting Creek Baptist Church. A reception will follow the service in Camden Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hunting Creek Baptist Church designated for Operation Christmas Child. JArrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.