Mary L. Byers, lovingly known as Mary, passed away on May 3, 2026, in Plainfield, New Jersey, at the age of 88, following natural causes. She was born on March 27, 1938, in McConnells, South Carolina, and lived a life marked by faith, devotion to family, service to others, and a spirit that touched everyone who knew her.
Mary was the beloved daughter of the late Kellup L. Moore and James Moore. She was also the cherished wife of the late Napoleon “Nap” Byers. Her life was enriched by the love of her children, Anthony M. Byers Sr., Jacqueline Y. Byers, and Chandra R. Jackson. She was a proud and devoted mother-in-law to Jodi Byers and Nery Ruiz. Mary treasured her grandsons, Anthony Byers II, Bernard Byers, Kasib Byers, and Ismil Raymond. She held a special place in her heart for her nieces, Kimberli Freeman and Kayla Anglin, as well as her extended family. She was also blessed with the companionship and support of her sister, Pamela E. Moore. Mary’s family was the center of her world, and she gave them her love freely and without measure.
Mary received her early education in South Carolina and graduated from Jefferson High School in York, South Carolina. She later attended Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, where she pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, an affiliation that reflected her grace, character, and commitment to sisterhood. Her education laid the foundation for a lifetime of dignity, perseverance, and achievement.
As a young adult, Mary joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church in McConnells, South Carolina, where her Christian faith became an enduring part of her life. After moving to Plainfield, New Jersey, she united with Calvary Baptist Church and remained an active and faithful member. She served with dedication on the Matrons Club, the Flower Ministry, the Women’s Fellowship Ministry, The Seasoned Saints, Missionary Ministries and the Plainfield Shut-In Council, offering her time, compassion, and encouragement to others. Mary lived her faith through service, kindness, and a steadfast concern for those in need.
Mary also devoted more than 30 years of service to the Plainfield Board of Education, where she worked as an administrator. Her long career reflected her strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to supporting students, staff, and the broader school community. She was respected by colleagues and appreciated for the steady, dependable presence she brought to her work each day.
Outside of her professional and church life, Mary enjoyed simple pleasures that brought her joy. She loved playing Bingo and Pokeno, planting flowers in the springtime, and cheering for her favorite team, the New York Yankees. These interests reflected her warm personality and her ability to find happiness in life’s everyday moments. She was known by those around her as loving, kind, and generous, qualities that were evident in all she did.
Mary will be remembered as a woman of faith, strength, and compassion whose presence brought comfort and encouragement to many. Her life was a beautiful example of devotion to God, family, and community. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
As the writer and poet Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Mary Byers made countless people feel valued, welcomed, and loved, and that is the legacy she leaves behind. Her memory will remain a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.