Evangelist Missionary Catherine Byars

A GODLY WOMAN

Missionary / Evangelist Catherine Byars

Catherine Johnson Byars was born to her parents, George and Lennie Johnson on November 21, 1932, in Port Gibson, Mississippi. She was raised with her siblings, Walter, Robert, Edward, Julious, Modestene, Bonnie, Jean, and Lelia. As a child, she loved to spend time with her family, they played tag, went fishing, visited animals and adored cats. In addition, she enjoyed helping her mother make berry pies.

After attending Junction City High School in Junction City, Kansas, she pursued her passion for cosmetology at Mile High Beauty School in Denver, Colorado; where she earned her cosmetology license. Catherine dedicated many years of her life to the beauty industry as a beautician, always serving with a spirit of excellence. Throughout her career, she brought a boast of confidence to her clients by making them look amazing. She also made countless connections with clients and enjoyed sharing the love of Christ with them.

Mother Byars met the Late Pastor Jimmie L. Byars while living in Kansas, they were joined in holy matrimony on December 22,1952 in Junction City, Kansas. The couple enjoyed more than 60 years of marriage. United, they worked tirelessly to ensure that their children were raised in the church, Veda, Cynthia, Michael, Jimmie and Joseph knew their help came from the Lord.

Her role as a caregiver extended beyond her profession; as a devoted Pastor's wife, Mother Byars was recognized for her selflessness and considerate nature. She embodied the qualities of a true woman of God, always placing the needs of others before her own. Catherine was known for her loving, welcoming personality, and her ability to listen to the needs of God's people. She made an invaluable presence in the lives of many.

Catherine's proudest accomplishments include serving for 44 years as the First Lady of True Faith Church of God in Christ, a position that allowed her to nurture and guide her congregation with grace and compassion. Her presence was felt not only within the church walls but also within her family, where she created many cherished memories. Her grandchildren fondly recall the numerous Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners spent together, filled with laughter, joy, and togetherness.

Mother Byars is preceded in death by her husband, Elder Jimmie L. Byars Sr.; daughter, Cynthia Lipscomb; sons, Michael Byars and Joseph Byars; and grandchildren, Christopher Scott and Delicia Robinson.

Evangelist/ Missionary Catherine Byars departed this life to the embrace of her Lord and Savior on August 29, 2024. She is survived by her daughter, Veda Byars-Woods; son, Jimmie L. Byars, Jr.; twin sister, Jean Giles; grandchildren, Cathy Scott-Chance, Christina Scott-Rico, Wendell Byars, Jr., Melanie Byars, Kirby Lewis Woods, Jr., John (Shallia) Robinson, Jr., Alicia Robinson, Andrea Lipscomb, Michael (Shakina) Byars, Jr., and Bernard Byars; 22 great-grandchildren; 12 great great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews . 

She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and that will be cherished her family and the community she served. Well Done Thy Good and Faithful Servant.