Willard "Cotton" Ray Byrd, Sr.

Willard “Cotton” Ray Byrd, Sr., of Covington, passed away Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at the age of 72. Mr. Byrd was devoted to his family and worked hard to provide for them. Selfless and kind in nature, he was always there to lend a helping hand and never judged anyone. In his spare time, Mr. Byrd enjoyed watching westerns, hunting, and fishing. He was a straightforward man who loved his family, had several friends, and will be missed by all that knew him. Mr. Byrd was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie Terrell and Cleo Byrd; sisters, Ernestine, Emma Jean, Doris; brothers, Tommy, Don, Jimmy, Jessie, Ed, and Jerry.

Survivors include his daughter, Deanna Byrd; sons, Ray Byrd (Cherrail), Jessie Byrd; grandchildren, Drake Puckett, Leela Byrd, Jessie Byrd, Jr., Presley Byrd, Bradyn Byrd; brother, Billy Byrd; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service for Mr. Byrd will be held Monday, May 23, 2022, 11:00 A.M., at the Chapel of Caldwell & Cowan, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, with Pastor Justin Adams officiating and interment following in White Chapel Memorial Gardens, 1832 Pleasant Hill Road, in Duluth. Friends are invited to visit with the family at the funeral home, two hours prior to his service, from 9:00 – 11 A.M.

Governor Brian Kemp’s latest executive order has eliminated restrictions on large gatherings; however, CDC guidelines recommend social distancing (6 feet apart) and wearing of masks while in public. Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home requests that you observe these recommendations while in our funeral home attending visitations and/or services.