R. C. McBryde, age 88, longtime resident of Beaumont, passed away on February 26, 2013. He was born in Doucette, Texas on July 24, 1924, to Nettie Justice McBryde and Ramsey Clyde McBryde. He is survived by his wife of almost 64 years, Nora Edith, and by his daughters and their spouses: Sharon & Mitch Tanksley, Eileen & Mark Leger, and Elaine & Jimmy Leger. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren: Trista Jimmy Prasifka, Tracy James Pace, Trent Walker, Carly Jo Cody Crisp, Daniel Holle Leger, Doree Eric Holton, Jessica Leger, and Natalie Leger. And soon to be 8 great-grandchildren: Taylor Gilbert, Colten Prasifka, Alayna Prasifka, Luke Pace, Carter Holton, Brynna Prasifka, Colt Holton, and new baby Claire Holton whose grand entrance is expected on or before March 22.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Nettie and Clyde McBryde, sisters Willie Vee Huff, Allie Mae Bowen, and Mable McCormick, and brothers Horace McBryde and Billy McBryde.
Daddy was a member of the Greatest Generation and served in the U.S. Army Air Force during WWII. After his return from the war, Daddy began working for Southwestern Bell Telephone, part of AT&T and the Bell System, where he met Mama. He worked in installation, repair, and the central office during his career and held the title of PBX Repairman when he retired in 1984.
Daddy loved Jesus, his family, music, fishing, and sports – of any kind. He especially loved the Dallas Cowboys, although it is said they caused him to gain weight when they didn't play up to his expectations. He made countless trips to the refrigerator for Blue Bell ice cream when he couldn't stand the stress any longer!
Daddy was a member of North End Baptist Church and served in many capacities over the years. He was a Sunday School teacher, department leader, song leader, member of the church choir, and the list goes on.
A celebration of his life is planned as follows: Visitation on Saturday, March 2, 2013, from
3-5 p.m. at Claybar Funeral Home, 1155 N. 11th St, Beaumont. Funeral services will be Sunday, March 3, 2013 at 4p.m. at Claybar Funeral Home. Burial with full military honors will be on Monday, March 4, 2013 at 10 a.m. at Forrest Lawn Cemetery, 4955 Pine St, Beaumont, TX.