Brevard - Leona Davis Byrd, age 86, passed away on December 21, 2025 at Mission Hospital.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Orion Davis and Bertha Leona Moore Davis of Waynesville; twelve siblings; and her daughter, Kimberlyn Aldridge

She was born on April 24, 1939, in Waynesville, North Carolina. Leona was a graduate of Waynesville Township High School, Class of 1959. She devoted her career to banking, serving as an Operational Officer at First Union, where she was well respected for her dedication, integrity, and professionalism before retiring in 1994. In her free time, she found great joy in golfing, dancing, and spending time with her friends and family.

A faithful and devoted member of Morningside Baptist Church, Leona had a deep love for Jesus that guided her life and shaped the love and kindness she shared so freely with others.

Survivors include her loving husband of 67 years, James Byrd; her daughter, Alison Vaughn; grandchildren Brandi Ashe, Blair Ashe, and Mason Vaughn (Brittney); great-granddaughter Gracelyn Jackson; and her sisters, Mary Evelyn Cogdill of Waynesville and Ruth Stevenson of Iron Duff, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.

Leona will be remembered for her unwavering faith, strength, kindness, and the deep love she had for her family and all who knew her. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

Friends and family are invited to attend visitation on January 3, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m., all to be held at Moody-Connolly Funeral Home, located at 181 S. Caldwell Street, Brevard, North Carolina 28712.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.