Dwayne Foster Byers' Obituary
Dwayne Foster Byers, 86, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 4, 2021.
Dwayne was born on January 5, 1935, to Foster and Harriet Byers, in Donora, Pennsylvania. As a young man he proudly served in the National Guard. Dwayne married the love of his life, Berdetta, on March 26, 1960. He was a loving and devoted husband and father of 6 daughters. In 1970, Dwayne graduated from Elim Bible Institute, Lima, New York. Four years later, he established Joy Company, a gutter business in Detroit, Michigan, which operated for over 35 years. In 1984, Dwayne moved the family to Elmira, New York, and established a second gutter business, New Creations.
In 1991, Dwayne and Berdetta responded to God's call to Botswana, Africa. In 1992, Tlokweng Dayspring School opened its doors with 50 students and from 2001 to present, there have been over 500 students enrolled annually. Over the past 3 decades, Dwayne has lovingly and faithfully served as Director of Dayspring School and pastored Hebron Church. Under Dwayne's ministry, there were over 9,000 chapel and church services held and thousands of lives impacted by the presence of God.
Dwayne selflessly served and dedicated his life to the precious people in Botswana. He became a father and grandfather to many, and he lovingly "adopted" many sons and daughters. His passion and love for children were evident when school children would surround him as he walked across the campus. One of Dwayne's greatest joys in life was to interact with the students and staff, and for many years he enjoyed playing basketball with the students. Dwayne never met a stranger! Whether it was a trip to the grocery store or a visit to a local restaurant, Dwayne loved to greet and encourage people. Many lives have been touched by his kindness, faithfulness, and generosity. He was also known for his great sense of humor and ability to be the life of the party.
Dwayne's legacy was that he passionately loved God and people. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His influence and impact were felt around the world. May his life's testimony inspire us to follow in his footsteps of loving his Savior and serving others. Dwayne's last encouragement to his children and grandchildren was to love the Lord with all their hearts and forget not His mercies.
Dwayne is preceded in death by his parents Foster and Harriet Byers; brother Jay Byers; and sister Janice Elofson; grandchildren Jonathan, David and Joshua Swartzendruber. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, of 61 years, Berdetta Byers; daughters Debbie Swartzendruber and husband Bernie, Laurie Maltby and husband Tom, Sherrie Kirby and husband Richard, Esther Robbins, Mary Demoff and husband Scott, Joy Mutepfa and husband Ephraim; brother Marvin Byers and wife Barbara, brother Mark Byers and wife Cathy; sister Ann James; 20 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren, and a host of other dear family and friends.
In Lieu of Flowers, friends may consider making a contribution to the missionary work in Botswana where Dwayne served for over 28 years. For more information, please contact the family.
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