In memory of Melissa; in support of her three young children.

As they prepared for the new school year, the weekend of Aug. 12 was supposed to be one of relative calm - if such a thing is possible with three children under the age of 8 - for the Byrd Family.

In a crushing twist of fate, Melissa, beloved wife to Brent and mother of Liam, Oliver and Elin passed away unexpectedly. As we navigate this unimaginable moment, the heartbreak is palpable. And yet, we are profoundly grateful for the time we had with this incandescent and marvelous woman.

Indeed, anyone acquainted with Melissa knew she lived at 110 mph. Everything she did, she did with boundless tenacity and intense dedication. Everyone she loved, she loved fully and protected fiercely.

Above all else, she loved her three children, Liam Patrick (7), Oliver Riley (5), and Elin Schuyler (10 months). She and Brent have worked tirelessly to care for, to love and to keep them safe while also looking to the future in preparation for the education opportunities to come.

In honor of Melissa, her friends and family have established a fund dedicated to that very purpose. Proceeds will be used to underwrite the children’s future education.