Marian Whittington Byrd, 83, of Apex, NC passed away Thursday, September 5, 2024. Marian spent her final weeks surrounded by her loving family. Marian was born December 16, 1940, in Harnett County NC to Edgar Thomas and Annie Weaver Whittington. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by husband James "J.E." Edwin Byrd Sr, grandson Kyle James Byrd, brother Frederick "Buddy" Whittington, sisters Gay Moore, Iris Bryant, Hilma Hanna and Dale Whittington and special nephew (like a brother) Ronnie Moore.

Marian had a 37 year career with the telephone company, beginning with Carolina   Telephone Company in Dunn NC in 1960. She later transferred to Southern Bell then BellSouth, both in Raleigh NC, where she retired as BellSouth Business Systems Customer Associate in 1997.

Marian was affectionately known as Plum or Aunt Plum by her family, because she was "sweet as a plum." She loved her family immensely and actively supported them in all their endeavors, sports and activities. She insisted that her greatest treasures and her biggest passion were her grandchildren, whom she adored. She loved dancing and was an active member of the Tuesday Night Dance Club at the American Legion in Benson, NC, where she spent most weeks line dancing and forging lasting friendships. Marian loved to read, play cards, travel, and she loved music.

Marian is survived by her husband Connie C Jones; son James E Byrd Jr and wife Karen; daughter Kimberly Byrd Wilshire; grandchildren Jacob Wilshire, Krysta Byrd Quiroga and husband Alberto, and Brianna Wilshire and partner Matt Hall; stepson Brandon Jones; stepdaughter Tonya Register and husband Troy; step grandchildren Ava, Annalise and Caden Register; sister Brenda Page and husband Wilton; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at Montlawn Memorial Park Chapel, located at 2911 S Wilmington St, Raleigh NC. A celebration of life will immediately follow at 1:00 pm in the Chapel. Interment will be with J.E. in the Montlawn Memorial Park Chapel of Memories Mausoleum. The family would like to express our sincerest gratitude to Transitions LifeCare Hospice for the compassionate care they provided to Marian and for the support and guidance they provided to our family, especially Laura, Yana and Susanna.