He became a History Teacher first in Smithfield for a short time and then in the Newport News Public Schools for many years. He left the Teaching Field to open his own Painting Company. He painted many homes in the Hilton and Riverside areas of Newport News and forged many lifelong friendships. His customers appreciated his honesty and felt comfortable allowing him in their homes to paint, even when they were not present.

Upon retiring, he started working with his wife, May Haltiwanger Byrd, owner of Warwick Kids Academy in Newport News. Mr. Ed opened the school everyday,  and he was the first to greet students, parents and teachers.  He knew every student by name and what they liked to play with. He was in charge of the kitchen and cooked delicious meals which everyone thoroughly enjoyed! He remained working there until he sold the school in 2015.

He was predeceased by his Wife, Parents and Grandson, Michael (whom he raised). He leaves to mourn his death,  2 Sons: Kevin Byrd (Newport News), and Johnathan (Kelly) Byrd (Georgia); 2 Grandchildren: Malika Byrd (North Carolina) and Kevin Byrd, Jr. (KJ) (Newport News); 3 Great-grandchildren: Trinity, Serenity, and Dhuriya; a Brother,  Linwood (Gail) Byrd (Hampton), Sisters-in-law: Mable Hill (Yorktown), Rhoda (Alphonso) Holt (Newport News), Minerva (James) McNair (Hampton), Gardenia (Charles) Burton (Houston), and a Brother-in-law, Solomon Haltiwanger (Newport News); 2 Uncles: Langston Smith (Maryland), and Lawrence Anderson (Washington,  DC), a Special Devoted Cousin, Ann Waddell (Maryland); and a Host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, and Other Relatives and Friends.

A celebration of life service will be held 2:00 pm, Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple. Viewing will be held from 3 to 6 pm, Friday, July 22, 2022 at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. O.H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.