Philip Byrd

Philip Dale Byrd Sr., 71, of Wood River, IL, passed away on Monday, December 16, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.

Born July 31, 1953, in Granite City, IL, Philip was the oldest of four children, born to the late Elvis Byrd and Verlyan (Sykes) Byrd.

Philip married Cherie Grace Strubinger on November 19, 1974. He and Cherie just celebrated 50 years of marriage. A true testament of love and dedication.

Philip was a beloved husband and father who enjoyed spending time with his family. He loved woodworking and could fix anything. Philip enjoyed teaching his children and grandchildren the basics of construction, furniture making, and even roofing. He loved art, music, a good laugh, and being surrounded by his family sharing a meal together.

Surviving are his wife, Cherie Byrd; his children, Autumn (Brian) Powell of Belleville, IL, Amanda (Danny) Gray of Collinsville, IL, Philip Byrd Jr. (Stephanie Rushing) of Collinsville, IL, and Ashley (Jason) Feezel of Hamel, IL.; Nine grandchildren, and two (soon to be four) great-grandchildren; his sisters Patricia (Gary) Andrews of Tooney, AL, Peggy (David) Edwards of Springfield, IL, and brother Donald (Kathy) Byrd of Granite City, IL.

Visitation and Memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 28th, from 12-4 p.m., at Heights Community Church, 231 South Bluff Rd, Collinsville, IL 62234. Pastor David Seaton of Heights will be officiating the service, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made to BJC Hospice Care of Alton Memorial Hospital, Alton, IL.

Arrangements provided by Thomas Saksa Funeral Home.

Obit Provided By:
Thomas Saksa Funeral Homes