Hoyt Cope Byars' Obituary
BYARS, HOYT COPE passed away surrounded by loving family on Friday morning April 5, 2013. Hoyt lived a full life without compromise making a strong impression on the thousands of friends he made over the 89 years of his life. Hoyt was born in 1923, the son of Paul and Pearl Byars of Wylie, Texas. A fourth generation Texan, Hoyt was a proud descendant of Noah Byars, one of the Founding fathers of the Republic of Texas. Hoyt graduated from Wylie High School and enjoyed playing every sport offered at the varsity level from baseball to football to basketball. After graduation, Hoyt joined the war effort and flew in the 8th Air Force fighting the war in Europe. Before Hoyt left for Europe, Hoyt spotted a beautiful young girl at the Garland Swimming Pool, Margie Malone, who he courted and married. That love affair continued for almost 70 years with only his passing now separating them. Hoyt fought courageously for our freedom with 25 missions during WWII and was a highly decorated hero who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the European Campaign medal with 2 bronze stars, Air medal with 3 Oak Clusters, the Lucky Bastards Club, and the Air Offensive Europe and Normandy Medals. Returning from the war, Hoyt raised a family with Margie with a daughter Annette and son Steve. Hoyt was active locally and served as post Commander for the Garland VFW, while working in the X-Ray business and later in the U.S. Postal Service. Hoyt and Margie were long-time members of the 1st Baptist Church in Garland. Hoyt is survived by his wife Margie, daughter Annette her husband Bill Creamean, son Steve and his wife Kris, along with 2 grandchildren Susan and KC, 6 great grandchildren Jennifer, Taylor, Caitlin, Rusty, Chaz, and Colton, plus 2 great, great grandchildren Micah and Devin. Hoyt will be missed, but his legacy and the impact of his life will continue. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Sunday, April 7, 2013 at Restland Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 12:30 PM, Monday, April 8, 2013 at Restland Wildwood Chapel. Donations may be made to Friendship House at First Baptist Church, 620 West Avenue B, Garland, Texas 75040.
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