Rita Byrd
Director of Children’s Ministries

If you attend the 8:30 or 11:00 services, you know that Rita Byrd has a way with children.  It is very obvious that she loves her little ones.  She definitely has experience working with children.  Rita began her teaching career in her hometown of Clarksville, where she taught 5th grade.  When Terry, Rita’s husband of 32 years, was transferred to Austin, Texas by his employer, IBM, Rita began teaching 2nd grade. When the Byrd’s returned to Tennessee, Rita again taught 2nd grade at Donelson Christian Academy, where she remained for 20 years.

Rita had been involved with children’s activities as a volunteer at HUMC since becoming a member in 1993, but she felt God calling her to work full-time with our children.  In 2007 Rita joined the HUMC staff.  Linda Locke, Director of Christian Education said, “Rita Byrd is a beautiful blend of head, heart and hand.  She is trained both professionally and in life experience.  Rita has a heart for the Lord, and her hands are busy night and day, creating wonderful opportunities for our children.”

Rita and Terry have one son, Chad, who is an Electrical Engineer at Square D in Murfreesboro, of whom they are extremely proud.  Rita said with a twinkle in her eye, “You know, Chad was Valedictorian of his class at DCA.”  Family is very important to Rita.  She gets to Clarksville often to visit her dad, James Alsobrooks, who is 89, and reportedly grows the best sweet silver queen corn around.  Rita said, “Daddy just knows when the corn is at its peak and ready to be picked.”