Soror Warene (Stephens) Byrd

Warene Stephens illuminated the world with her arrival on July 13, 1930, in Henry County, Alabama. She was the treasured firstborn of Cornelius Stephens and Armenthus Lane Stephens, as well as the beloved granddaughter of Charley and Hannah Lane, and the second grandchild of Bob and Stella Stephens. Affectionately known as "Sweet," Warene quickly became a beacon of hope during the trying times of the Great Depression. Growing up in the farming communities of Shorterville and Haleburg, Alabama, she embraced the challenges of farm life with elegance. Guided by her devoted father, Warene learned the importance of hard work and family bonds, values she carried with her throughout her life.

Warene's commitment to education reflected her parents' unwavering dedication to their children's future. Cornelius worked on the railroad to ensure that she and her sister Christine could thrive at Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, in Huntsville, Alabama. There, Warene developed her skills and graduated in 1953 with a degree in Home Economics Education. Fueled by her passion for teaching, she returned to her hometown in Henry County to share her expertise as an educator. Her love for learning prompted her to further her studies at Tuskegee University, where she earned a certificate in Early Childhood Education. Warene devoted 45 years to nurturing and shaping the minds of young students at Henry County Training School.

Not long after beginning her career in education, a twist of fate intervened and brought Warene together with the "Love of her life," Walter Edward Byrd. While stationed at what was then known as Fort Rucker Army Base, now called Fort Novosel, Walter was part of the 98th Army Band. Captivated by the young educator, their bond led to a beautiful union, as they eloped to Enterprise, Alabama. They eventually became instructors within the Dothan City School System. Their partnership, though shared aspirations for sixteen (16) wonderful years. After establishing themselves in their careers, they purchased a home across the street from her parents. They welcomed their first child, Derringer, and doted on him for four years before the arrival of their second child, Kerchal, who stole the spotlight as the adorable "red" baby. After moving into their newly constructed home, conveniently located between their workplaces, they welcomed Towanna, who not only broke the mold of boys but was also the apple of her father's eye for four years. Following his passing, she continued to be her mother's closest companion and even moved next door, just as she had done with her parents. Warene's legacy of love and education took root at Stringer Street, now known as Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School, where she impacted countless lives, as well as at Southside Elementary School and Selma Street Elementary School, where she retired in 1995.

Following the loss of her “Soulmate,” Warene's personal life was characterized by deep sorrow intertwined with immense love. As a devoted single parent, she took on the responsibility of raising their three children - ages 12, 8, and 4. With a blend of tenderness and discipline, she instilled in them the values of hard work, education, and the simple pleasures of life, guiding them toward becoming successful adults. Her eldest, Derringer, embraced her unyielding drive; Kerchal, the middle child, embodied her warmth; and Towanna, the youngest, reflected her resilience and steadfast friendship. Although their peers claimed they had the strictest mom, Warene's kids enjoyed regular beach trips, learned phonics and math through 45 vinyl records, discovered how to make ice cream, went to the movies and skating, and acquired skills in cleaning and driving. Her oldest son drives just like she did, having learned on a 1960 Chevy without power steering or brakes.

Her dedication to lifelong learning and community service brought Warene to Troy University in Dothan, Alabama, where she became a member of the Beta Upsilon Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Through her engagement with the Houston County Adult Education System, she inspired adults while also enjoying family conventions in various cities. In a memorable moment, she purchased a car directly from the showroom floor! Warene's affection was limitless; she treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren and made it a point to attend every graduation, regardless of the distance.

In her later years, Warene truly embodied the essence of caregiving, diligently caring for her mother until her passing. With her nurturing nature, she embraced travel, cherished family gatherings, and delighted in weekends spent with her god-grandchildren, Timothy (Nuicy) and Janiyah, during their stays with Derringer, particularly after the devastation of Hurricane Michael. Her passion for life and dedication to her family never wavered, even as she aged gracefully.

Predeceasing her in eternal rest are her beloved parents: Cornelius and Armenthus Stephens; her soulmate: Walter Byrd; and her sister: Christine (Charles) Narcisse. Warene Stephens Byrd completed her last chapter in the book of life on November 5, 2024, and was called home to her everlasting peace.

Warene's legacy weaves together a rich tapestry of love, learning, and leadership, treasured by her devoted children: Derringer Byrd, Kerchal (Cinda) Byrd, and Towanna Byrd. She held her grandchildren close to her heart: Dr. Doratha Armenthus Byrd, and Dr. Kerchal Byrd, DPT; and her great-grandchild, Lucinda Ricketts. Her beloved nephews: Pavis Narcisse and Christopher Narcisse, along with her godchildren: Timothy (Nuicy) Clark, Janiyah Clark, and Stephen Tsukuda, also honor her memory. Additionally, her cherished cousins who were like sisters, Arlane and Eva, will always remember her fondly.

As a motivational figure, Warene embodied the words of Helen Keller: "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." In every role she played, Warene lived this adventure with courage and an open heart, inspiring those around her to embrace life's challenges with similar audacity. The story of Warene Stephens Byrd lives on as a testament to the power of love and education to transcend adversity and to the truth that the human spirit is unbreakable when nurtured with care, compassion, and relentless optimism.

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