Alma McPhaul Byrd

Alma M. Byrd passed away peacefully in her sleep on the afternoon of January 11, 2025, at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC. Alma was 97 years old and until a few days before her passing had lived in Clayton, NC, with her son Tom and wife Dawn, with grandchildren Sean and Erin close by.

She was the wife of the late Lee W. Smith and the late Maurice Byrd. Previously, Alma was married to the late James P. O’Brien for more than 25 years and had three children with him.

Alma Marie McPhaul was born in Norfolk, VA, on November 16, 1927, to parents Neal C. and Mattie (Ayers) McPhaul and was one of seven children. Alma lived in the greater Washington, DC area for much of her life where she raised her sons and stayed close to many of her extended family of brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Alma lived in Albuquerque, NM, close to her family and with late husband Maurice, for 25 years prior to coming to NC. Together they were active in the Shriner’s organization. Alma prided herself on being a hands-on grandmother. She was always the life of any party, quick to raise a toast and share a big meal with those she loved. At restaurants, it was customary to order dessert before the main course because any dessert, especially containing chocolate, was her favorite. She was adored by many for her hospitality, humor, and fun personality. Throughout her entire life she had a special way of connecting with all people and will be remembered fondly.

For the last three years of her life, Alma lived less than an hour drive from where her McPhaul Scottish ancestors settled in the American colonies in the 1750s. In her final years, she was able to enjoy seeing her extended family along the East Coast again, lived on a farm, adored seeing her great grandchildren who affectionately called her Gigi, and spent daily quality time with her son Tom, frequently keeping him on his toes. Alma’s quick wit was still evident in her last days and will be missed by all.

Alma leaves a lasting living legacy in her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She taught us through her example how to love unconditionally and the importance of family.

She was preceded in death by her 20-month old son James O’Brien, Jr., granddaughter Tori Martha McGee, her beloved sisters Dorothy, Ruby, Mattie and Gladys, and beloved brothers Jim and Bud. She is survived by her three sons, Richard (Margie) O’Brien of St. Petersburg, FL, John (Sally) O’Brien of Hagerstown, MD, and Thomas (Dawn) O’Brien of Clayton, NC. Three stepchildren also survive her: Stephen Lee Smith of Fort Worth, TX; Kathryn (Michael) McGee of Euliss, TX; and Barbara Smith-Brady (Mark) of Germantown, MD. Grandchildren include Angela, Benjamin, Kelly, Gene, Robert, Christopher, Sean, Erin, Jennifer, Michael, Samantha, and Matthew. She is also survived by 20 great-grandchildren.

Alma and her family appreciated the care and support of her caregivers, including Vivian, Victoria, Adriana, Ann, the SECU Hospice House staff, and those who provided home hospice care, including Erin, Michelle, April, and Dr. Dennis Koffer. All these special people helped to make Alma’s last few years memorable and her final weeks comfortable. We also want to thank the hospital staff of Johnston Health who spoiled “Gram” on the few times she was hospitalized for various illnesses.

She will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery.