Marshall Bruce Byrd

Marshall Bruce Byrd died at 6:02 a.m., on Monday (May 6, 2013), at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana. His fiance, Linda Hansen of Carmel, IN was by his side. He was joined by the hospital chaplain, and his family who all joined hands for a prayer of the 23rd Psalm. It was his wish to have no public services. Bruce was born July 16, 1956 at Carle, to his parents, Charles Eugene and Delores Byrd (Pricer). They, and an infant brother, Michael; his step-father, "Mike" Pricer; and his beloved pets, Misty and Betsy all preceded him in death. Survivors include his fiance, Linda; a sister, Marcia (Michael) Jones, of Grand Junction, Co; a brother, Charles (Susan) Byrd, of Champaign. Bruce attended St. Patrick's Church, Urbana. He graduated from Centennial High School, Parkland Junior College, and Eastern Illinois University in Charleston with a degree in Business Administration. He worked for many years for the Illinois Department of Public Aid, for Health Alliance, and Communications Data Group. He became disabled in July of last year with a failed heart and was on a list for a possible heart transplant. He learned on May 4th that he had end-stage pancreatic cancer. Bruce received many service awards honoring his volunteer work in the community, and for taking care of the special needs of the elderly that came to his attention in his work. His clients were like extended family, and he was there for them. He was also involved in helping to build playgrounds for disadvantaged children. Bruce's other interests included America history, sports, and he was a vintage film buff. Bruce especially enjoyed being out in nature, reading, gardening, and watching wildlife. Our family would like to thank Linda, his fiance, for her loving care of Bruce, and for brightening his life at such a difficult time. We also would like to thank his neighbors at Parkview Senior Apartments, Savoy, for their support. Memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Champaign-Urbana Chapel, 710 N Neil Street Champaign. Please join Bruce's family in sharing memories of his life on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.