Roll Call Tribute

Duane Edward Byrd, LTC USA (Ret) 

February 10, 1951 - August 2, 2024 

Duane Edward Byrd was born February 10, 1951, in San Antonio Texas. After a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease, he departed this life Friday, August 2, 2024, to begin his eternal life with Our Heavenly Father. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Jean (Byrd) Mackay, father, Rev. Dr. Sherman Clifton Byrd, and stepfather, Leo Sidney Mackay Sr.

As the son of a preacher, he grew up in church and maintained a close personal relationship with God. The eldest of five children, he was born a leader. He said what he meant and meant what he said; he demanded of others, only what he demanded from himself. All who knew Duane recognized his attention for details and preparation. He was mostly all business, but he had a quick sense of humor, and a kind heart. These traits served him well in his service to our country, as a career Army officer and during his lengthy battle with Parkinson’s.

Duane graduated at the top of his class from John F. Kennedy High School and received a 4-year scholarship to Texas A&M University. As one of the first Black graduates of the Corps of Cadets, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army on May 5, 1973.

He served in a variety of ever-increasing responsibilities, finally retiring after 23 years of service with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. The highlight of his military career was his selection as Commander of 40th Armor Company in Elite Berlin Brigade. Duane also served in Japan on General Staff as the Operations officer (G3), responsible for coordinating joint training with our Pacific allies. His numerous decorations include but are not limited to the Legion of Merit for exceptional meritorious service. He received several post-graduate degrees and continued his service to the community and country as a Senior JROTC military instructor.

Duane had a positive impact on many of the men and women who served with him throughout his illustrious career. Hundreds of aspiring youth were influenced to serve our country in the military by the wisdom and example he set as a Senior JROTC instructor.

He married Yolanda Tijerina, his wife and lifelong partner, on March 19, 1971, in Bryan, Texas. Together, they shared adventures both at home and abroad and honored their commitment to each other, their family, and faith for 53 loving and devoted years.

Duane is survived by four children; Sam (Megan – daughter-in-law), Monica, Jenna, Khalil, and five grandchildren; Avery, Sloan, Jace, Mari and Alyssa, who will love their “Pop/Dad/Pap” for eternity. He leaves behind four siblings and their spouses: Johnathan (Pamela), Joyce (Edward), Leo (Heather), and Elizabeth. To his siblings he was affectionately known as “Big Bubba Duane”. He was the loving uncle and great uncle to many nieces and nephews.

The Funeral Service will be held at 8:00AM, with Visitation to begin at 7:00AM, on Friday, August 30, 2024 at JBSA - Fort Sam Houston, Dodd Field Chapel. Procession will immediately follow to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery for interment, featuring full United States Army Honors, at 9:30AM.