Avance "Junior" Byrd Jr.

HIS STORY...

Avance Byrd Jr., 63 was born November 13th, 1960, to the proud parents of the late Rev. Avance Byrd Sr. and Sophie Mae Byrd. Avance made his transition on July 8th, 2024, from St. Joseph hospital in Tacoma, Washington to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Avance accepted Christ at an early age being baptized at First Baptist Church of Lakeland in Michigan City, Indiana. Later he moved his membership to Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist church under the leadership of the late Rev. D. T. Taylor, where he was a faithful member of the ‘Voices of Zion’, doing what he loved.

Avance grew up in Michigan City, Indiana. In high school, he played a vivid role in the ‘Mini Singers Chorus’ under the direction of Mr. Dale Truex only to begin his journey in music. Avance was a graduate of the 1979 class at Rogers High School, Michigan City, Indiana. He continued his education and graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana where he received his Bachelor of Music Educational degree. While attending Indiana University he studied voice with the former Metropolitan Opera Baritone, Walter Cassel. Avance had the privileged opportunity to also appear in several well-known operas; Porgy and Bess, Soldier Boy, Soldier, Carmen, Showboat, Die Fledermaus and several others. In 1986, Avance relocated to Tacoma, Washington where he also performed in the Tacoma Opera, Everett Opera, and the Seattle Pro Arte Musica Ensemble; he was also a member of the ‘Sound of the Northwest.’ Not only was Avance gifted at singing operatic, but his extraordinary tenor voice allowed him to sing both classical and spiritual music. Upon arrival to Tacoma Washington, he joined Bethlehem Baptist church under the leadership of Dr. Freeman S. Rhodes.

Avance began his teaching career at Mason Middle School in Tacoma, WA, teaching music and choir. Avance then earned his Master of Arts in Leadership and Curriculum at Western Washington University. He moved on to become principal, serving at Boze, Wainwright, Grant, and Jefferson Elementary Schools. One of his proudest achievements was being awarded the Blue-Ribbon award from the United States Dept of Education recognizing exemplary public schools. After 30 years as an educator, he retired from Jefferson Elementary School. Avance was also a proud member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Organization.

Avance was an avid gardener and cook. He was affectionately known as ‘Junior’ by many who knew him. He was a lover of life and people, with a special love for his mother.

Avance was preceded in death by both parents, the late Rev. Avance Byrd Sr. And Sophie Byrd. One brother Godfrey Sylvester Byrd.

He leaves to honor his legacy, his only dearly beloved son, Avance Trenton Byrd III (Miami, Florida). Three Sisters, Barbara Glover of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Henrietta (Theophilus) Sandidge of Merrillville, Indiana, and Vernessa (Walter) Fry of Michigan City, Indiana. One brother Aron Byrd, Shoreline, Washington. Avance had many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly along with the entire RWDL family. Lastly, his 4 pet Chihuahuas. Avance will always be remembered for his impact on future generations.

A Celebration of life will be Monday, July 29, 2024 11am, at Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church 123 Helen St. Michigan City, Indiana 46360 with Pastor James E. Lane Jr., to be Eulogist. Viewing will be 10am until time of service at the Church. 

The entire family would like to thank the community, close friends, colleagues, and all those that knew him and supported him during his time in Tacoma, Washington

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