Keith Byrd Jr.

Needham Keith Byrd, Jr. passed peacefully on May 29, 2025, at the age of 89. He is free and joyfully reunited with his Savior and the family and friends who have gone before him. Keith is survived by his two loving daughters Deborah Boswell (Steve), Beverly Mize (Ron); his 5 grandchildren Steve Boswell, III (Erin), Will Boswell (Caroline), Zac Boswell (Annie), Curt Mize (Jennifer) and Keith Mize; his 4 great grandchildren; his sister Betty Byrd Poole; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Keith was born in Elamville, AL in Barbour County on February 20, 1936. He was the youngest of 3 children born to Keith and Lutie Byrd. He graduated Bradley University in Peoria, IL with a degree in Horology. Keith was a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and became a Registered Jeweler in 1963. He began his career in Eufaula, AL at Whitlock Jewelers. Keith worked for Ware Jewelers in Auburn, AL for 22 years before taking ownership of Byrd’s Frank House Jewelers, in Sylacauga, AL. Over the years, he served in numerous leadership roles in Auburn, AL and Sylacauga, AL. Keith was an expert in jewelry design and hand engraving. He sold many engagement rings over the years.

Upon retirement at age 60, Keith enjoyed travel, reading, and spending as much time as he could with his 2 daughters and 5 grandsons. If one of his grandsons had an event, he was there to support them and cheer them on. Keith had a great sense of humor and was always ready with a quip or quote to make you laugh. He loved people and never met a stranger. He had the most generous heart, and many were on the receiving end of that generosity. Keith was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church in Auburn, AL for 21 years and a member of Hunter

Street Baptist Church for 18 years. He was a proud supporter of the Auburn Tigers.

Keith was a wonderful father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He has left a legacy of love and family. He will be missed by all those who loved him dearly.

The funeral will be held at Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home on June 7, 2025. The address is 2701 John Hawkins Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35244. Visitation is at 10:00am with the service to follow at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer’s Association, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Healthwell Foundation, or the charity of your choice.