Ricky A. Byrd was born on January 21, 1967 in Natchez, Mississippi. He was the beloved son of Willie Mae Byrd.

He graduated from South Natchez High School in 1986 before attending Mississippi State University, where he continued his athletic career as a member of the football team. Ricky excelled on and off the field, earning his bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance. While at Mississippi State, he pledged Phi Beta Sigma, Inc. After graduation, Ricky had a brief career in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers until his career ending injury.

A vibrant pillar of his community, Ricky loved people and served his clients at Regions Bank faithfully for over 30 years. More than his professional accomplishments, Ricky will be remembered for the life he built with and for the people he loved. While living in Columbus, MS he joined the Masonic Lodge, and a member of the M-Club at Mississippi State,

He was a devoted son, brother, and an amazing father who loved his children fully. A gentle giant, Ricky had a smile that would light up any room, a booming, contagious laugh, and sparkling, mischievous eyes. He enjoyed fishing, fixing things and spending time with family.

He leaves behind an amazing legacy of love: his mother, Willie Mae Byrd; his children, Portia Clark (Allen), Ri’Carrdo Byrd (Gabrielle) and Carrlon Byrd; his siblings, Constance Aikens (Kevin) and Romello Burdoucci; his grandson, Mason McBride; special friends: William “Pops” Wooten, Ryan Ford, and Robert Young; and a host of other relatives and friends.