Virgil Leon Byrd, 58, was born January 30, 1960 in Kansas City, Missouri, the eldest of three children born to the union of Benjamin G. Byrd and Gwendolyn F. Byrd (Winnie).

Virgil attended J.S. Chick Elementary School, Southwest High School and culinary school. He loved to cook, especially barbeque, as he thought he was the best ever. He was also a member of Mensa, an elite group of smart individuals.

Virgil worked for The Savoy Grill and at a plasma center. He moved to New York to pursue his passion for music. Virgil could play any instrument placed in front of him, a gift from his dad. Very talented, he formed the band, Millard Fillmore, releasing several cd's and a website, millardfillmore.com. He later returned to Kansas City to care for his mother.

Virgil departed this life on October 5, 2018. He was preceded in death by his mother, Gwendolyn F. Byrd; grandfather, Marvin Erickson; and grandmothers, Virginia Byrd-Smith, Martha Jane Stewart and Georgie Glasgow.

He leaves to cherish fond memories: his father, Benjamin Byrd (Betty) of Kansas City, MO; brother, Otis G. Byrd of Sedalia, MO; sister, Melissa Turner (Karlton) of Kansas City, MO; grandfather, Kenneth Stewart, Sr.; uncles, Ronald, James, Teddi Bone and Tutu; aunts, Sharon, Corbetta, Joyce and Ginger; very special niece, Kelcie Turner and a host of cousins and friends.

Memorial services Saturday, October 13, 2:00 p.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on offer website.