Jeffrey L. Byard

Jeffery L. Byard (age 69), of Versailles, IN but born and raised in Milan, IN, passed away Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 at his home in Versailles. Born January 14th, 1957 to Jeanette (Jean) LaVerne Byard (Volz) and James Berton (Bert) Byard, Jeff attended Milan High School and Indiana University Bloomington. He had many hobbies including carpentry, iron working, fishing and golfing, but his true loves were his family and music. He married the love of his life, Eva P. Byard (Goodall), on August 25th, 1979. Jeff also raised three beautiful children; Jamie (Byard) and Joe Clark, Jeffrey A. Byard, and Jeremy and Cireena (Smith) Byard. His pride and joy were his grandchildren; Kailey (Clark) and Matt Lewis, Hunter Clark, and Easton Clark. His biggest smiles came from listening to his great-granddaughter, Evalinna Lewis’s favorite new word….”Papaw, Papaw, Papaw.”

He was proceeded in death by his parents, two brothers; James (Jim) Byard and John Byard, and his nephew James (Jimmy) Byard.

His friends were countless and he was always there for anyone/everyone, no matter the situation or personal cost. His two rules for life were: “Find something to smile about every day.” and “Treat people as well as they will let you.” He will be dearly loved and missed for all time. He truly was the greatest.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 18th from 2:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. at the American Legion in Milan, IN.