Mr. Everette Byers 90, of Morrilton, Arkansas transitioned on Monday, August 3, 2026. Mr. Everette Byers was born on May 1, 1936, in Cleveland, Arkansas, to the late Mr. Freeman Byers and Mrs. Zella Mae Byers. He was the third eldest of seven children and was lovingly known by many as "Preacher."

Mr. Byers confessed Christ and accepted Him as his Lord and Savior at an early age at Moore's Chapel AME Zion Church in Cleveland, Arkansas, where he remained a faithful and devoted member until his passing. Throughout his years of service to the church, he faithfully participated in the Intercessory Prayer Meeting, sang with the Moore's Chapel Male Chorus for several years, served as a preacher steward, and was a member of the Steward Board until his passing. He also shared his love of gospel music by singing with the Happy Land Singers. As a young man, he loved playing baseball and would often share those cherished memories and stories with his grandson, Tre.

Although Mr. Byers had limited formal education, he possessed remarkable resilience, determination, and a strong work ethic. He worked diligently to provide for his family through farming. One of his first jobs was at the sawmill in Cleveland, Arkansas, where he worked until relocating to Hickory Hill. He later moved to Morrilton, Arkansas, where he continued to work faithfully while building a life for his family.

After moving to Morrilton, Arkansas, Mr. Byers worked as an industrial worker at the Cotton Mill and later as a janitor at Northside Elementary School. He also owned and operated his own lawn care service, where he graciously served others by maintaining their lawns with pride and dedication.

Mr. Byers never shied away from hard work and remained committed to providing for his family. Even well into his 80s, he continued working as a janitor for Wayne Smith Trucking Company. He remained devoted to his work until he was no longer able to ambulate, retiring at approximately 87 years of age. As his health began to decline, medication became part of his journey, but for most of his life, laughter was his medicine, and love remained his message.

Mr. Byers was preceded in death by his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Nancy Byers; his parents, Freeman and Zella Mae Byers; daughter, Nelda Ruth Thomas, grandson, Dwight Thomas Sr; and all of his siblings: Chester Byers, Ervin Byers, George Byers, Geraldine Byers, Janice Byers, and his half-brother, Bervin Byers.

Mr. Everette Byers, affectionately known as “Preacher,” leaves to cherish his loving memory: son, David Byers (Karen) of Conway, Arkansas; grandsons, David Byers Jr. (Selena) and Tre Delph of Morrilton, Arkansas, and Michael Thomas of Kansas City, Missouri; granddaughter, Marla Thomas-Griffin of Kansas City, Missouri; special niece, Toney Canady and great niece J’yna Canady; best friend, Mr. Burnell Canady and Mr. Jeff Newson; brother-in-law, Marcus Canady; sisters-in-law, Betty Byers, Dorothy Day of Kansas City, Missouri, and Wanda Canady of Morrilton, Arkansas; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure his life and legacy.

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.

Psalm 4:8

Vance-Wilson & Jarrett Funeral Directors

"The Epitome of Service"