Nationwide — Jean Byrd, an African American mother from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, collapsed from cardiac arrest just before she could see her daughter graduate from Parkland High School. She was rushed to the hospital but later died. According to WXII 12, Byrd had come to watch her daughter, Meilean, receive her high school diploma. As she walked in the parking lot toward the venue, she collapsed. Her sister quickly called Byrd’s son, Marquan Matthews, who was already inside. A security guard drove him to the scene on a golf cart, and he performed CPR until paramedics arrived.
While the tragedy happened, Meilean walked across the stage and received her diploma. A guidance counselor quietly pulled her aside afterward and brought her to the hospital, where she learned the news.
Byrd had long battled heart problems and survived two previous heart attacks. Her family remembers her as a joyful, loving presence. Marquan described her as energetic, compassionate, and a safe haven for many children.
Originally from Philadelphia, Byrd’s family hopes to lay her to rest there. They’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to help with funeral expenses. It has so far raised over $11,000.