Mary M. Byars, 80, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, December 15, 2024. Born on July 25, 1944, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Annie and Joel Rawls, Sr., Mary lived a life full of love, music, laughter, joking, and a steadfast devotion to her family and community.
Mary was the cherished matriarch of her family—a devoted wife to her beloved husband, George Byars Sr.; a proud and loving mother to her children, George Byars, Jr. and Devona Byars; a doting grandmother to Kia Byars; a supportive sister to Joel Rawls, Jr., Cornelia Davis, Thomasine Jones, James Rawls, Sr., and Theresa Wilson; and a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.
A graduate of IC Norcom High School, Class of 1962, Mary pursued her passion for music by earning a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Norfolk State University. Her exceptional talent and dedication to teaching led her to serve as the Assistant Band Director under Emery Fears at her collegiate alma mater. Mary later married the love of her life, George Byars, Sr., and embarked on a journey of travel and adventure as a Navy wife. While living abroad, she achieved one of the most significant milestones of her career. Out of 50 applicants, Mary was selected to serve as a high school band and choir director, becoming the only black instructor in Kenitra, Northern Africa.
Upon returning to Portsmouth, Mary transitioned to a successful career in supply logistics at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, where she worked diligently until her well-earned retirement. Retirement, however, didn’t slow Mary down. Her passion for teaching and shaping young minds brought her to the Portsmouth Public School System, where she continued to inspire and influence future generations.
Mary’s contributions to the community extended far beyond her professional life. An accomplished musician, she shared her gift by playing the clarinet, piano, and cello. She was a valued member of The Norfolk State Consortium and the Tidewater Community Band, performed in a woodwind quartet, and skillfully transposed countless pieces of music for the quartet. Mary also gave back through private piano lessons, inspiring generations of musicians.
Her creative spirit and nurturing nature were evident in everything she did. Mary loved cooking meals for her family, knitting beautiful creations, and bringing joy through her sense of humor. She was a beacon of warmth and strength, leaving an incredible mark on everyone fortunate to know her.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Annie and Joel Rawls, siblings Cornelia Davis and Joel Rawls, Jr., and her daughter, Devona Byars. She leaves behind a legacy of love, music, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the community she served so passionately.
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Regina Long Southall says
December 19, 2024 at 5:53 pmThe Rawls and Byars families have my heartfelt sympathy due to the passing of Mary Rawls Byars. Mary was a role model for other musicians when she was in the I.C. Norcom High School Marching Greyhounds Band and then moving on to become a member of the Norfolk State Band. Her expertise in playing the clarinet was as good or better than that of Benny Goodman. I will really miss Mary and her sweet spirit May she rest in heaven until we meet again. Thomasine Rawls Jones and Teresa Rawls Wilson, her sisters are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Regina Long Southall
A Former I. C. Norcom Marching Greyhound And Norfolk State Marching Spartan
BEVERLY R TALLEY says
December 21, 2024 at 11:01 amCome ye, disconsolate. Wherever ye languish.
Many memories of my neighbor on Magnolia St and classmate at Truxton ES through NSU. Hope to reunite with you & Cornelia in heaven.
Family, Bring your wounded hearts, hear tell your anguish. Earth has no sorrows, that Heaven can not heal.
Love, Beverly Renata Talley & the Talleys on Magnolia.
Alvin A. Williams says
December 22, 2024 at 9:47 amMay God give the family peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Alvin A. Williams says
December 22, 2024 at 9:49 amThat God will be with thee family at this time.
Kim Spencer says
December 28, 2024 at 10:43 amMy sincere condolences to Mr Byers, George Jr and the entire family. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Ms Mary will truly be missed and always remembered in our heart. Rest in peace.