Earl Dean Byrum

2/24/1944 - 6/19/2025

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Obituary For Earl Dean Byrum

Earl D. Byrum, born in 1944 in Arkansas, passed away on June 19, 2025, in Norfolk, surrounded by the love of his family. A proud Navy veteran, Earl served aboard the first naval ship equipped with air conditioning—marking the beginning of a lifelong career. After his military service, he made his home in the Hampton Roads area, where he built a life marked by hard work and dedication to family and friends. He was the founder and owner of Byrum Mechanical, an HVAC company he operated with commitment and pride until finally retiring in December of 2023.

A passionate golfer, Earl spent countless cherished hours at Lake Wright Golf Course as a proud member of the Lake Wright Golf Association. When they paved paradise to put up a shopping mall, Earl found a new community at the Ocean View Golf Association, where he served as Treasurer for several years. His joy for the game was surpassed only by the deep friendships he cultivated on the fairways.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, one daughter, and his stepson. He is survived by his loving wife, one son, two daughters, two stepdaughters, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Earl’s presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he created. With his final advice: “Don’t get caught in a Mexican jail,” we are reminded of his sense of humor and his unique way of looking out for those he loved.

Simply Cremation is handling the arrangements.

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Tributes

  • Traditional Floor Basket

    Kris Kline sent Traditional Floor Basket for Earl Dean Byrum - 06/25/2025

    Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Flowers Baking Company of Norfolk, LLC.

Condolences

  • 07/06/2025

    Earl, you were a ray of sunshine on my weekend mornings at Ocean View Golf Course. You never hesitated to lend a helping hand for those around you, especially at the course. I'll always remember your witty humor and words of wisdom. We'll miss you terribly but thank you for leaving such a lasting impression on OVGC.

  • 06/29/2025

    Earl was one of the great mechanics I apprenticed with working for Howard Webb. Customers loved his quick wit and mechanical abilities. We worked on everything, oil burners, air conditioning and ammonia refrigeration. He once taped a penny to my screw driver "so it would be worth something " A smile, a laugh, a complaint. Thanks Earl Staley Jordan

  • 06/24/2025

    I'm so sorry to hear about the passing of Earl. I worked at lake wright golf course years ago where I end up meeting my husband. I was going through a hard time at one point and Earl was comforting and very caring and helped me a lot. With his kind words and ear. I'm so sorry to the family. I haven't seen him since lake wright closed which I'm still upset about. They should have torn down military Mall in Janaf instead. God bless you rest in peace. Ashley and Ryan Gilbert

  • 06/24/2025

    Earl was a great friend and golf partner. He will be truly missed. RIP Earl Byrum You will be missed , Chuck Flowers Norfolk, Va

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