Dr. Tony B. Byles

Dr. Tony B. Byles, 88, of Lake Charles died at 7:30 AM on Monday, February 17, 2014 in the Southwest Louisiana War Veteran's Home in Jennings, LA. Dr. Byles was born on September 21, 1928 in Marthaville, LA where he graduated high school. He graduated with an education degree from the University of Arkansas where he was lettered in basketball and track. He was also a member of Phi Kappa Alpha Honor Society. He began his career as a coach of basketball and later as a principal at his graduating school, Marthaville High School. Dr. Byles then served his country in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Okinawa, Japan during the Korean Conflict. His typing skills landed him a job in General MacArthur's office. He returned to Lake Charles and coached basketball at LaGrange High School and later became principal at Rosteet Elementary all the while working on his Master's and Doctorate in Education at Southern Mississippi. Following his completion of his education, he was hired at McNeese State University and was appointed Dean of Special Education. He retired from this career in 1981 and obtained his real estate license. He worked for Tyler-Roberts Reality for approximately 15 years. Dr. Byles was a member of St. Michael's and All Angels Episcopal Church and was also a past member of the Cowboy Club. He was a very accomplished and educated man throughout his life and made his family very proud. Dr. Byles enjoyed his retirement by spending time with his children, grandchildren, and friends. He will be sorely missed and never forgotten. Those left to cherish his memory are a daughter, Margaret Ellen Quienalty and husband Mike of Lake Charles; a son, John "JB" Byles and companion Danna Bradford of Lake Charles; a grandson, Ryan Ayres, stationed in South Korea; a granddaughter, Elizabeth Ayres of Lake Charles; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers; and three sisters. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2014 at St. Michael's and All Angels Episcopal Church from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Cremation was entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home and a private inurnment will take place in the church columbarium. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the Southwest Louisiana War Veteran's Home for the loving, caring, and compassionate attention given to Dr. Byles during his stay there.