Michael J. Byrd

Michael “Mike” J. Byrd, 81, of Jackson, passed away Friday, June 5, 2026, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.

He was born March 24, 1945, in Cape Girardeau, to John and Evelyn Seabaugh Byrd. He was a 1963 graduate of Jackson High School.

Specializing in helicopter mechanics, Mike honorably served in the U.S. Army from October 15, 1963, to September 26, 1966. While serving in Germany, Mike met the love of his life, Margit Plogsties. They were married June 29, 1966, in Neuhausen, Germany. After Mike’s enlistment ended, they made their home in Jackson.

Mike worked many years in sales as a route driver for Pepsi and Anderson Clark. He enjoyed restoring vintage automobiles.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his wife of nearly 60 years, Margit Byrd of Jackson; sons, Terry (Jennifer) Byrd of Jackson and Michael (Stephanie) Byrd of St. Louis; grandchildren, Kodi (Michelle) Byrd and daughter Blakely Byrd of St. Louis; Jake Byrd (Arial Clark) of St. Louis; and Brittany (Will) Stallings of Anchorage, Alaska.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation is from 9 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson. Chris Collier will conduct the funeral service at 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 17, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson.

If considering a memorial contribution, the family suggests St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Missouri Veterans Home Foundation.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by scrolling to the guestbook beneath Mike’s obituary article at mccombsfuneralhome.com.