Obituary of Margie E. Byrd

On February 4, 2023, our beloved Margie Elizabeth Byrd, age 69 of Roanoke, Virginia passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side.  Her battle with Lewy Body Dementia, which she fought bravely and cheerfully, has now come to an end.  Waiting for her ahead are her mother and father, Ruth Murphy and Richard Elmore, step-father John Murphy, and brother-in-law Steve Ireland.  Margie is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 44 years, Roger Byrd; daughter and son-in-law, Christi and Jason Santora, and her cherished grandchildren, Ethan and Avery Santora.  She is also survived by her step-children, Troy and Joy Byrd, Tami and Steve Oliver, and six grandchildren.  Margie was especially close with her two surviving sisters and brother-in-law, Donna Ireland and Brenda and Butch Robertson, who so dearly refer to her as “my little Margie.”  Margie cared deeply for her nieces and nephews: Jonathan and Annette Ireland, Lisa and Robert Sharpe, Sarah and Mike May, Bryan Robertson; and each of their children.  

Margie was born and raised in Roanoke, Virginia.  She is a graduate of Patrick Henry High School and National Business College.  Throughout her career, Margie worked at the Commonwealth Attorney’s office (where she met Roger), her uncle’s law firm, WDBJ7, was secretary to financial planners, served as an aide at Glenvar Middle School, and finished her career as the merchandiser at Roanoke Country Club’s golf shop.  Margie’s passion and gift from God was the piano.  She served as the pianist and member of the praise team at Bethel Baptist Church prior to retirement.  Margie and Roger spent time living in Ocala, Florida from 2011 to 2019 before returning to Roanoke.  She was blessed to have so many special friendships, and always looked forward to Friday night dinners with her Sunday School gang.  Margie was a leader and organizer within her family.  She is known for her red velvet cakes, unwavering optimism, generosity, and love of shopping that she carried with her till the end.  Only Margie would request that her hair be done before departing this world.  Margie loved being “Nana” to Ethan and Avery; and her love for them will live on forever.  

A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023 at 11:00am in the Faith Chapel at First Baptist Church: 321 Marshall Ave SW, Roanoke, Virginia 24016.  Following this service, family and friends are invited to a reception in Phelps Hall at First Baptist to celebrate Margie’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Good Samaritan Hospice:  2408 Electric Rd, Roanoke, Virginia 24018.  Margie’s family wishes to thank everyone for the overwhelming love and support that has been given throughout this illness.  We are comforted in knowing that Margie is now at peace and leading the angels’ choir in song.