Mrs Mildred Lucille Hendrix Byars

“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Proverbs 31:29 A true Proverbs 31 woman of noble character, Mildred Lucille Hendrix Byars, passed away Thursday, June 28 at her home in Walhalla, South Carolina. Mildred was born October 14, 1935 in Oconee, South Carolina to Ernest and Velma Duncan Hendrix. “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.” Proverbs 31:10-12 Mildred married Buddy Byars on July 25, 1957, and for the next 66 years, she was his bride, his helper, and a true treasure to him. She followed him to Puerto Rico with the Air Force until they came home to Pickett Post Road, to a home her father built for her in their absence. This home was innately special--directly across the street from her parents and her childhood home. Though her father built the house, she and Buddy constructed a lifetime of memories. Together, they raised their family, hosted numerous gatherings, and opened the doors to all. “Her children arise and call her blessed.” Proverbs 31:28 Mildred was mother to Larry (Beth) and Teresa Upton (Randy). She was Granny Mil to Shanelle Marcengill (Lynn), Lauren Hamby (Derek), Kristen Upton, Will Byars (Kayla), Matthew Hooper, and Jonathan B. Hooper (Marcy). She had numerous great grandchildren. Mildred was beloved in her church, in her community, and to her devoted caregivers. “She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy… She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.” Proverbs 31:20, 27 Mildred worked at Harper’s Five and Dime and retired from Walhalla Middle School. After retiring, Mildred continued to minister to her community. She volunteered at Lila Doyle Nursing Home for many years. She and a friend established and operated a Clothes Closet in downtown Walhalla to serve the community in connection with College Street Baptist Church. “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” Proverbs 31:25 Mildred enjoyed decorating themed tables for the teas at College Street Baptist Church, participating in the Red Hat Club, traveling and cruising, and cooking for her family. She was the last to sit at every family meal, and she had to be reminded to make herself a plate as well. Mildred’s family and friends will surely think of her when they say something backwards and get tickled laughing, find a great clearance sale, see a lady in a red hat, or spot an empty candy wrapper. “A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” Proverbs 31:30-31 Her family is honored to extol Mildred’s life and praise her 88 years of kingdom work. Funeral services will be held at College Street Baptist Church on Tuesday, July 2 at 2pm. The family will receive friends from 1PM - 2PM, prior to the service, at College Street Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: College Street Baptist Church, PO Box 340, Walhalla, SC 29691. The family is at their respective homes.

Mrs Mildred Lucille Hendrix Byars

October 14, 1935 - June 28, 2024