Mrs. Jewel E. Byrd, 98, of Lillington passed away Thursday, July 16, 2020 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Harnett County, the daughter of the late Orestes and Berta Hair Ennis.
Jewel was a precious and loving mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She loved her family unconditionally. There was frequent friendly debate between her grandchildren, nieces and nephews as to who was her "favorite".
She was a devoted member of Lillington Baptist Church for close to 70 years. Jewel cherished her church family and was a member of the Sara Womble Bible Class. Along with her husband, Worth, and a few other couples, she was instrumental in founding the first ARC of Harnett County. She was passionate about this organization and its purpose of creating opportunities for the mentally disabled citizens of Harnett County.
There was nothing more important to Jewel than her family, church, and friends. She devoted her life to service of others and shared an unconditional Christ-like love with those whose paths crossed hers.
Jewel was preceded in death by husbands, Vernon Lewis Godwin and Worth Lee Byrd, Sr., son, Ronnie Lewis Godwin; siblings, Eugene, Gilmer and Gordon Ennis, Thelma Butler, Olive Ruth Coats, Mary Ellen Kluttz and Wanda Reid Harrington
Jewel is survived by her son, Worth Lee Byrd, Jr. of the home; daughter, Kathy Byrd and husband David of the home; grandchildren, Carol Ann Sherman (Alan), Valerie Godwin, Natalie Lewis Brozy (Kirk), Allen Lewis, Sarah Kathryn Turpin (April), Sara Williamson (Greg); great grandchildren, Sarah Sherman, Jewelee Turpin, Andi Lace, Owen Grey and Mary Scarlett Turpin; Madison, Matthew and Mia Williamson; several nieces and nephews; special friend and caregiver, Rita Marsh.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, July 20, 2020 at Lillington Baptist Church with Rev. Daniel Selman and Rev. Jeff Roberts officiating. Burial will follow in Harnett Memorial Park. The family will receive friends in the church sanctuary Monday from 10:00-10:45 AM and other times at the home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lillington Baptist Church/ The Prayer Garden, P.O. Box 670, Lillington, NC 27546.
In accordance with current North Carolina COVID-19 guidelines, the church requests that everyone in attendance practice social distancing and wear a face covering.
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