Minnie Bell Byrge

It is with profound sadness and rejoicing that we announce the passing of Minnie Bell Byrge, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who entered into eternity with her Lord and Savior at her daughter’s home on September 4, 2025. Her life was a testament to unwavering faith, boundless love for her family, and selfless service. Minnie was born to the late Dewey and Irene Braden on March 3, 1939, in Laurel Grove. From an early age, her compassionate spirit and nurturing heart were evident to all who knew her. She dedicated her life to Christ, lived by His teachings, and taught her family and those around her to do the same. She married the love of her life, the late Rev. Thomas Bryge Sr., who became a devoted pastor after serving in the Air Force. As a military wife, Minnie demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. She embraced every new assignment and challenge with courage and grace, creating a loving home for her family wherever they were stationed. She understood the sacrifices of military life and provided steadfast encouragement to her husband and children. As a pastor's wife, Minnie was a pillar of strength and support, embodying the spirit of sacrificial ministry in every aspect of her life. She served alongside her husband with grace and humility, touching countless lives through her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Her home was always open, a sanctuary of warmth and acceptance for all who entered. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. A devoted mother to Millie Arender and Thomas Bryge Jr, she poured her heart and soul into raising her children with love, faith, and strong Christian values to pass on to their kids and grandkids. As "Mamaw" to her grandchildren and "Mimi" to her great-grandchildren, she created a legacy of cherished memories, laughter, prayer, and unconditional love. Her life revolved around their well-being, and she found immense happiness in caring for them and watching them grow. She continuously prayed for generations yet to come, a testament to her enduring faith and profound love for her family. Minnie will be remembered for her fierce and loving spirit, her unwavering faith, her remarkable ability to care for others, and her profound love for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire and comfort all who were blessed to know her. The family is grateful for Minnie’s daughter, Millie, and husband Ricky, who cared for her mother and made her last days this side of heaven full of love and laughter. The family would also like to give a special thanks to her caregiver, Courtney Dewberry, who loved and cared for Minnie for six months and is considered to be family. She is preceded in death by her parents, Dewey and Irene Braden; Husband, Thomas “Tom” Byrge Sr.; Brother, Morris Braden; Sister, Patricia Russel; and Great-Grandchild Zachary Arender. She is survived by her children, Millie Arender (Richard), Thomas Byrge Jr. (Tessa); her grandchildren, Darryl Arender (Amanda), Matthew Arender (Michelle), Christy Howard (Andrew), Kellie Braden (Adam), Andy Byrge (Shelby), Jessica Schroeder (Gary), Heather Byrge, Isaiah Byrge; 17 great-grandchildren; Borther-in-Law Everett Byrge (Gail), Sister-in-Law Faye Douglas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service to celebrate Minnie's life will be held at Clinch River Baptist Church on Friday, September 12, with visitation from 5-7 PM, with service to follow. Graveside service will be at Clinch River Baptist Church on Saturday, September 13, at 10 AM.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7