Mr. Claude J. “Chuck” “Chubby” Byers, Jr., 83, of Waynesboro, PA, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2026 in York hospital.
Born June 13, 1942 in Waynesboro, he was the son of the late Claude J. Byers Sr. and Ethel P. (Martin) Byers.
Mr. Byers graduated from Waynesboro Senior High School with the class of 1960.
He and his wife, the late Mrs. Wanda L. (Dixon) Byers, were married March 3, 1980. They enjoyed 43 years of marriage together when she passed away September 11, 2023.
Mr. Byers proudly served his county in the United States Air Force enduring multiple tours, retiring with his rank of Senior Master Sergeant after more than two decades of dedicated service from 1960 to 1983. During his distinguished military career, he was involved in SR-71 photo intelligence operations during the Vietnam war-an accomplishment he held with greatest pride. For his service and commitment, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, and National Defense Service Metal, along with additional honors approved by the President of the United States. He was a true American patriot who loved his country deeply and served it with honor and integrity. After his military career, he worked as a corrections officer for the state of Maryland for a number of years.
He was a proud member of the Joe Stickell American Legion post#115, Waynesboro. In his younger years, he was an avid golfer and throughout his life enjoyed collecting coins, and listening to music, especially Elvis. He was also a devoted dog lover, always having a loyal companion by his side.
He is survived by his four children, Rhonda G. Dunning of Greencastle, PA, Judy A. Rice of Waynesboro, Michelle Nunley and her husband David of El Campo, TX, and John Byers and his wife Rhonda of Shreveport, LA; 8 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; his siblings, Ronald Byers of Mont Alto, PA, Gloria Carbaugh of Waynesboro, Jean Umbel of Abbottstown, PA, and Dorine Spangler of Hagerstown, MD; one brother-in-law, Steven Rexrode; his beloved loyal companions Bitsy, Precious, and Ella; and many nieces and nephews, as well as an extended host of family and friends.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Linda Byers and Barbara Rexrode, and one grandson, Jason Byers; and one brother-in-law William “Bill” Spangler.
Graveside services will be held 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Cedar Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, 17636 W. Washington St., Hagerstown with Pastor Greg Helman officiating, where full military honors will be conducted by Charles Nitterhouse VFW Honor Guard Post 1599.
Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home, Waynesboro is handling the arrangements.
