With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we share the peaceful passing of James Arthur Byers, Sr., affectionately known as "Jim Boy and Poppy," on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the age of 60. James was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose impact in our lives is immeasurable and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Born on April 11, 1965, in Petersburg, VA, James was the cherished son of James Dean and Shirley Jean Byers. He was baptized at a young age at Baptist Temple in Petersburg, where his deep-rooted faith began. His spiritual walk remained central to his life, later joining Cornerstone Ministries under the leadership of Dr. Horace Jones, where he served faithfully as a Trustee and a dedicated member of the choir, blessing many with his warm, and affectionate voice.

A proud graduate of Petersburg High School, Class of 1984, James carried his strong work ethic and commitment to every aspect of his life. He dedicated thirty-five years of service to Central State Hospital, retiring on November 1, 2020. He also pursued his passion for music as a well-known DJ in the surrounding Tri-city area and at Char-Les-Manze. James was a lover of various genre of music and was known in the entertainment community as "Freakman J." James brought such joy and celebration to countless events across Petersburg and beyond!

James was also a past member of the 12th Masonic Temple in Petersburg, continuing his devotion to service, unity, and brotherhood. Additionally, James joined Char-Les-Manze on February 10, 1992, and previously served faithfully as Chaplain and Assistant Financial Secretary.

On October 21, 1989, James married the love of his life, Darlise Myrick Byers, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, faith, and family. For thirty-five years, their union stood as a testament to enduring black love and partnership.

James will always be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his giving spirit, his steadfast faith, and his affection for classic cars. Win, lose or tie, James was a die-heart Dallas Cowboys fan for life!

He had a heart that welcomed everyone, a helping hand always ready to lift others, and a legacy that will live on in the many lives he touched.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James Dean and Shirley Jean Byers; sister, Linda Byers; and his brother, Richard Byers.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Darlise Myrick Byers; four beloved children, Shenea Reid (Cory) of Woodbridge, VA, Angelique Byers, James Byers, Helene Byers, all of Petersburg, VA; his loving sister, Lacretia Byers Smith (Willie) of Petersburg, VA; cherished grandchildren, Kassidy Billups, Mackenzie Billups, Kristian Billups, Josiah Gilmore, Milani Byers, Madison Hurt, Corey Reid, Jr., and Luca Reid; caring sisters-in-law, Sinthea Myrick Kelly (Stanley) of Accokeek, Maryland, Melvina Green Myrick and Beverly Bridgeforth Myrick; a host of adored nieces and nephews, Shanelle Archer, Jessica Delbridge (Allan), Katrina Holland (Isaiah), Lachana Byers, Kashawnte Byers, Demetria Myrick, Johnathan Myrick (Jessica), Stanley Kelly II, and Samuel Kelly; uncle, Joe Dean of Maryland; cousin, Benjamin "Benny" Davis, Sr.,; and devoted friends who were like family, Kevin Dixon, Norman "Grip" Street, Paula McClellan, and Jimmy Underhill.

The Byers family extends heartfelt appreciation to the compassionate doctors and nurses of the VCU Cardiac ICU unit for their unwavering care and support during James' final days. Your dedication and compassion brought peace and comfort during his transition into eternal rest.

We also wish to thank Char-Les-Manze Inc., President Steve Dennis and Members, every friend, family member, and loved one who offered prayers, words of encouragement, calls, visits, and comforting gestures. Your love has been a source of strength during this difficult time, and we are forever grateful.

James Arthur Byers, Sr., was truly a light in our lives. Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, his spirit, laughter, and love will continue to live on in each of us.

"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." - John 14:1-3

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Monday, August 4, 2025, at Third Baptist Church, 550 Farmer Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Kassandra Bullock, Pastor. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.