John C. Byford

John C. Byford, 88, affectionately known as “Teeny”, passed away Friday, August 7, 2026. A visitation will be held Monday, August 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service immediately following at 11:00 a.m., all at Calvary Baptist Church in Coffeeville. Bro. Elbert McKnight will officiate. Interment will be at Calvary Baptist Church Cemetery. Seven Oaks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Teeny was a generous and giving man who spent much of his life looking for ways to help others. A talented handyman with a natural ability to repair and rebuild almost anything, he put those skills to good use throughout his career as Maintenance Manager for the Coffeeville School District, from which he later retired. He also enjoyed rebuilding appliances and would often sell them at cost simply to help those who needed them. His generosity extended throughout his community, where he was well known and deeply respected. Wanting the neighborhood children to have a safe place to gather, have fun, and stay out of trouble, Teeny built a skating rink for them to enjoy—a lasting example of his desire to make life better for those around him.

A devoted member and deacon of Calvary Baptist Church, Teeny faithfully served his church and cared deeply for his church family. In his quieter moments, he enjoyed watching Westerns and, when he was able, spending time fishing. Above all, he will be remembered as a man who took care of others, gave generously, and earned the respect of the community he was proud to call home.

John is survived by his daughter, Carla (Phillip) Stark; his granddaughter, Andrea Stark; and half-sister, Debbie McIntrye.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma Louise Byford; and his parents, John Edward and Myrtle Williams Byford; and his siblings, James Byford, Louise Graham, Edward Byford, Charles Ray Byford, and Nancy Fly.

Expressions of condolences may be expressed on Mr. John C. Byford's Tribute Wall at www.sevenoaksfuneralhome.com.