Cohen Byrd DePriest Jr.

Cohen Byrd DePriest Jr., age 91 of Clarksville passed peacefully on January 18th at Tennova Healthcare of natural causes.

Byrd was born March 6, 1931 in Denver, TN the son of the late Cohen Byrd Sr. and Ruby Gladys Bogard DePriest.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Phillis M. DePriest, one son, David DePriest and one brother, Wayne DePriest.  Also preceded by his first wife, Carmen Flores.

He served in the U.S. Air Force and retired after 21 years at the rank of Tech Sergeant. During his time of service, he served a one-year tour of duty in Vietnam and was awarded a Bronze Star for meritorious service.  He also worked for GTE (Verizon) and retired after 17 years with the company.

Byrd was a member of the Sango United Methodist Church and Masonic Lodge #89 He was also a very dedicated Mason, serving as Puissant Sovereign of the St. Sebastian Conclave in Florida during 2017. He enjoyed watching sports to include golf, professional and college football, especially the University of Tennessee Vols. 

Survivors include three sons, Thomas G. (Anita) DePriest, Richard L. DePriest and Robert L. (Donna) DePriest.  Also, two daughters, Deborah Romanoski and Shona Cook; one sister Faye Dunn; 12 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

Byrd will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who were blessed to be in his life and receive his love and devotion to them.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 PM Friday, January 27, 2023 at Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Funeral Home.  Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until the service hour with a masonic service to be held at 3:00 PM.  Burial will be at a later date at Bushnell National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL where he will rest in peace with his wife of 33 years.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sango United Methodist Church, or to the charity of your choice in memory of Mr. Cohen Byrd DePriest

Arrangements are entrusted to Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be made www.nealtarpleyparchman.com.

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