James Brandon-Butner Byrd

James Brandon-Butner Byrd entered the world on November 5, 2021 and was called back to heaven by God on November 6, 2021. He joins in heaven his great grandfather, Harold Harrington; grandfather, James “Randy” Byrd; grandmother, Ellen Marie Butner; great uncle, Ricky Abel; and uncle and aunt, Brandon and Samantha Byrd.

His passing is mourned by his parents, Amanda Byrd and Jimmy Butner of Murfreesboro; brother and sisters, Jaylin Wood and Roman Keedy both of Murfreesboro and Chloe Byrd of Michigan; grandparents, Ray and Christy Hunt of Murfreesboro; James Butner, Sr. of LaVergne; great grandparents, Cathy (Dan) Barden of Michigan and Rick (Mary) Abel of Tecumseh Michigan ; aunts and uncle, Karen Cottrell and Steven Robinson both of Smyrna; Brandy Castillo of Georgia, Camri Garza of Michigan, Skye Hunt, Faith Hunt, Sarah Hunt, and Amber Hunt all of Woodbury as well as numerous other cousins and relatives.

James’ name was a combination of multiple family members’ names, and his family was eagerly awaiting to welcome him home. They had several grand adventures in store for him and so many memories they were looking forward to sharing together. They had already began making preparations for his entrance into the world.  A nursery decorated with a Batman and Pops action figure theme would welcome him home.

Baseball was a family tradition that they looked forward to passing along to James. His dad had big plans to share his love of collecting baseball cards. His grandfather looked forward to continuing the tradition of playing catch with each of his grandkids, and everyone was ready to work on batting tips when James was ready to play baseball.

His mom couldn’t wait to take him outside and show him the wonders of the world.  Introducing him to the outdoors and how to use his imagination were her plans to keep him from staying indoors playing on the computer. Any boy would be thrilled to go fishing, and they were anticipating those adventures.  His large extended family couldn’t wait to begin the spoiling that was sure to come.

While their hearts are broken, they are comforted by the fact he received his angel wings and family was waiting to greet him in heaven and take him into their care.

Visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Saturday, November 13, 2021, from 12-2 pm. Memorial services will be held in the Gentry-Smith Funeral Home chapel at 2 pm. Tim Gentry will officiate. Share thoughts and condolences with the family at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com  Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337. Because every life has a story.