Poke Byers, age 73 a native of Guymon, OK and a resident of Tellico Plains for over 50 years, left behind his remaining earthly family to be reunited with his Lord and family members in Heaven on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Eddie Jr. and Eleonora Bianca Amabile Byers; siblings, Tana Byers Pauldino, Antonio Lee Byers, and Tina Mariea Byers; grandson, Joseph Paul “J.P.” Medina.

At the young age of 13, Poke met the love of his life, MaryGail. The teenage sweethearts married at 16, beginning their beautiful, lifelong journey together. In his youth, Poke’s determination shined in the boxing ring. As a Golden Gloves Boxer, he dominated the region, becoming a three-state champion across Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Kansas.

While living in Guymon, Oklahoma, at the age of 19, Poke experienced a moment that would permanently alter the course of his life. While watching Jesus, The Greatest Story Ever Told at a drive-in movie theater, the Lord met Poke right where he was and changed his life forever. Poke became a passionate vessel for God, carrying his faith into all aspects of his life.

In 1975, Poke and MaryGail packed up their three children and relocated to Tennessee, where they later welcomed their fourth child. Family was the center of Poke’s world. He had a bond with his children from their very first moments, delivering his last two children at home. Together with his sons, he established Poke Byers Painting, building a respected local career founded on hard work and integrity.

Poke's passion for boxing came full circle through his family. He took immense pride in serving as his youngest son, Jesse’s boxing coach. Together, they traveled across America for Golden Gloves Boxing, resulting in Jesse winning the National Championship in 2000.

An avid outdoorsman, Poke loved the peace of the water and took great pride in teaching his grandsons how to fish. Over the years he also took several fishing trips to Cape Cod and spent the last several years going back to the same cottage they fell in love with. Poke enjoyed the strategy of playing snooker and pool, and found great joy on the open road, especially when riding motorcycles alongside his boys.

Poke will be remembered as a man of unwavering faith, a rock for his family, and an inspiration to everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, MaryGail Byers; children and spouses, Potosha and Albert Medina, Israel Byers, Joseph and Heather Byers, Jesse and Carrie Byers; grandchildren, Brianna Gambill, JesseAaron Byers, Antonio Medina, Eden and Nicolas Byers, Enrique Medina, Ansley, Rocco, River, and Rhett Byers; two great-grandsons, JJ and Jameson Medina; sister, Dana Tomlinson and late husband Tommy, brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Susan Byers; several nieces and nephews, and many special friends.

To honor Poke’s wishes the family held a private burial. A memorial service for family and friends will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family request memorial donations to be made to Myers Funeral Home P.O. Box 132 Tellico Plains Tennessee. Myers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.