[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 37 (Wednesday, March 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E459]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     THE PASSING OF MRS. ERMA BYRD, WIFE OF SENATOR ROBERT C. BYRD

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                         HON. NICK J. RAHALL II

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 29, 2006

  Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, we have lost a great daughter of West 
Virginia. A coal miner's daughter, Erma Byrd was born and raised in the 
hills of southern West Virginia. More than 68 years ago she married a 
young man named Robert C. Byrd and for the past decades they have 
enjoyed a wonderful life together working for the people of West 
Virginia and all Americans.
  One of my life's greatest privileges was to know Mrs. Byrd. Always 
wearing a warm smile, encouraging with a kind word, reassuring with a 
gentle hand, Mrs. Byrd lived a life for others, clearing a path for 
each of us.
  Her life full of compassion towards others garnered her much respect 
and admiration throughout my home state of West Virginia. Generations 
of West Virginians were touched by the life of Erma Byrd. The 
unfortunate news of her passing will bring sadness to all West 
Virginians, as even those who did not have the opportunity to meet Mrs. 
Byrd stand in admiration of Erma and everything for which she stands.
  Scripture tells us that faith hope and love abide. The spirit of Mrs. 
Byrd always abided with these virtues and now always will through those 
whom her life so graciously touched.
  It was a wonderful waltz that lasted over 68 years for Senator and 
Mrs. Byrd. My family's thoughts and prayers for the Senator and his 
family join those of countless West Virginians and fellow Americans as 
we honor and remember the remarkable life of Erma Byrd.

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