Oct 9, 2013

3/6/1936 – 10/5/2013

Chester Hays Byars Jr., 77, formerly of Warren, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family Saturday, October 5, 2013.

Born in Finleyville to the Rev. Dr. Chester H. Byars Sr. and Beulah Briscoe Byars, Mr. Byars, affectionately known as Chet, lived most of his life in Warren, but recently moved to Spring Hill, Tenn.

Talented in many areas, he enjoyed playing the piano and served as a church musician much of his life.

Mr. Byars served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and rose to the rank of sergeant.

He worked for many years at Trumbull Bronze and later retired from Wetzel Plating in Warren. He also served as a deacon at New Freedom Missionary Baptist Church in Warren and was a member of the Masons.

Mr. Byars was also a skilled craftsman and enjoyed gardening. In his spare time, he enjoyed singing gospel music and spending time with his beloved family.

Surviving are his loving wife of 45 years, Frances Byars, and his three daughters and eight grandchildren, of whom he was very proud, Leisa and Del McSpadden of Brentwood, Tenn. (Del Jr., Lauryn), Sonya and Trevor Pryce of Ellicott City, Md. (Khary, Kamryn, Trevor III), and Nicole Byars of Hendersonville, Tenn. (Dante, DeWitt, Ashley). Also surviving are two sisters, Carol Berryman (Richard) and Sue Goodson; two brothers, James Byars (Debbie) and Daniel Byars; several aunts and uncles; and many loving nieces, nephews and close friends.

Deceased are his parents, the Rev. Dr. Chester H. Byars Sr. and Beulah Briscoe Byars; a son, Chester Byars III; two brothers, Reginald and John Byars; and his sister, Joanne Whiting.

Calling hours for friends will be held from 11 a.m. to noon, the time of a homegoing service, Saturday, October 12, in Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 3801 Mountain Road, South Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Rev. Dr. C.H. Byars Scholarship Fund by sending to Mt. Zion Baptist Church, P.O. Box 428, South Park, PA 15129, and reference the scholarship name in the memo.