Byron Edmonson

Byron K. Edmonson, 90, of Mesquite, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at his home.

Byron was born on September 13, 1934, in Ben Wheeler, Texas to Buel Franklin Edmonson and Sarah Clota (McNeill) Edmonson. The fourth of seven children, he grew up in Colfax, Texas, and later in Grand Prairie, Texas alongside his brothers and sisters.

In 1953, Byron graduated from Grand Prairie High School before going on to attend Arlington State College (now known as the University of Texas at Arlington). As a young man, Byron served honorably in the United States Air Force before beginning a career with the City of Dallas that would ultimately span decades. Working in the city manager's office, Byron was known for his warm personality, dedication and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His ability to build meaningful relationships with colleagues and city leaders alike left a lasting impression and his leadership as director of human resources helped shape the workforce of Dallas.

Beyond his professional life, Byron was an uncle, "papa" and friend to a multitude of people, too numerous to count over his long life. Additionally he had a deep love for animals, opening his heart and home to all kinds of creatures from dogs and cats to donkeys, goats and ducks. Not only that, Byron was a man for whom money held little importance; in fact, he often went out of his way to help those in need, even paying mortgages for loved ones.

Byron was the last of his generation preceded in death by his parents and six siblings: Buel Edmonson Jr; Wilma Mills; Robbie Edmonson; James Edmonson; Minnie Kernohan; and Tamara Rhodes.

Byron is survived by his sister-in-law, Annabelle Edmonson; nieces Beverly Lowry, Brenda Whitely, Susan Grayson, Karen Kernohan and Lisa Mateja; nephew, Gary Edmonson; plus their families, all of whom he loved dearly. To his nieces and nephews, Byron was a beloved and larger-than-life figure. Each of them firmly believed they were his favorite - a testament to the love and care he showered on them.

Byron's kindness and generosity extended to one of best friends and neighbors, the Lewis's, who became like family to him and brought immense joy to his life. In fact, their son, Blayne Lewis, was by his side during his final moments, offering him comfort and peace. Therefore, Byron's memory lives on through Paul and Linda Lewis and their children: Sandy Leath; Paula Lewis; Paul Lewis, Jr.; Blayne Lewis; and their families, all of whom held a special place in his heart. Also love for Preston Grosvenor and his son PJ.

Funeral Services for Byron will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at New Hope Funeral home in Sunnyvale, Texas. Burial services will follow at Haven of Memories Memorial Park in Canton Texas, afterward at 2:00 p.m.

Byron's kindness, humor and unwavering love for his family and friends will be deeply missed but forever cherished.