Joe Byars

Joe Leander Byars, age 85 of Winfield passed away October 12, 2019 at Hospice of West Alabama. Private family services will be held with Norwood-Wyatt Chapel directing. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of West Alabama. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Pauline Byars; and brothers and sisters, Edrelle Dillard, Ezelle Reed, James Byars, and Jimmy Byars. Survivors include his wife, Donette Byars, son, Joey Byars (Linda); daughter, Debbie Hughes (Steve); step-daughter, Amye Jo Nichols; grandchildren, Crystal Kaiser (Nick), Ashley Byars, Andrea Gibson (Michael), Hanna Hussey, and Aleah Byars; great-grandchildren, Gaige McCollum, Lila Kaiser, Waverly Gibson, and Reign Kaiser; and special family friend, Greg Gilpin. Joe was a lifelong resident of Fayette County, born on the farm where he still lived.  He served his country in the Army. After returning home from the Army he worked at Fayette Grain for 16 years.  He bred and raised American quarter horses for 45 years.  He worked at area livestock auctions, serving wherever he was needed. He also served as County Commissioner for 8 years. Honorary pallbearers are Tommy Collins, Harry Unger, Leon Cole, and Larry Trimm.