Beloved Community Spotlight

Sister Dorothy Ann Byrd has spent a lifetime listening for God’s call — and following it.

Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, Dorothy’s early years were shaped by both deep roots and wide horizons. As the daughter of a Navy father, her family moved several times before eventually returning and settling in Biloxi, where she would live until Hurricane Katrina altered the course of her life.

When the home she and her former husband built in 1987 flooded with two-and-a-half feet of water, she lived in a FEMA trailer for months during restoration — an experience that strengthened her resilience and faith.

At age 60, she moved to a suburb of Chicago to begin a new chapter.

Dorothy first made her profession of faith at age 11. She later had to walk to church —nearly three miles and sometimes in high heels — to attend a Baptist church after her older brother, who had been driving her, joined the Navy. Though she began in the Baptist tradition, she was confirmed in the Episcopal Church in 1972, after her marriage. Over the years she worshiped in several expressions of Christian community, including nearly two decades in a charismatic, non-denominational fellowship, before ultimately returning to the Episcopal Church.

Education and service have been consistent themes in Dorothy’s life. After raising her two children as a stay-at-home mother, she pursued a long-held dream of higher education, studying business and computer technology at a community college and later at the University of Southern Mississippi. Before completing her degree, she was offered a position as a civil service instructor at Keesler Air Force Base, where she served for 18 years as an instructor and system developer before retiring in 2007.

In 2023, at age 70, Dorothy began formation studies with the Anglican Order of Preachers (Dominicans), fulfilling a vision she first sensed, at age 12, to be a preacher. In August 2026, she plans to take her final vows as a Dominican sister. She credits Father Tommy at St. Margaret's with helping her make the connection that led to her affiliation with the Order.

Dorothy and her “bestie” of more than 25 years, Ann Curet, first met through the Episcopal Church in Biloxi in 1999. Since 2010 they’ve been housemates and have shared living expenses — first in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, and now in Baton Rouge — building a multi-generational household rooted in faith, friendship, and practicality. After renting in Walker when they first moved to Louisiana in December 2020, they purchased a home together in Sherwood Forest in June 2025. Sharing a home has allowed them, as two women on fixed incomes, to live more comfortably and support one another through the realities of aging and health concerns.

Their extended “family of choice” includes Ann’s daughter Ashley, her husband Kenny, grandchildren Alexa and Les, and two beloved dogs — Popcorn the Goldendoodle and Gia the white Boxer. Dorothy’s own son and daughter have blessed her with four grandchildren as well, all of whom bring her tremendous joy.

Dorothy and Ann were first drawn to St. Margaret’s by listening to Father Tommy’s sermons online during COVID. When churches reopened, they attended in person and found a warmth and welcome that kept them coming back. For Dorothy, St. Margaret’s is a model of what a Christian church should be — inclusive, supportive, and authentic, where people are embraced as they are without having to “act churchy.” She especially appreciates how quickly new members become active in ministry and values the parish’s spirit of acceptance.

She would love to see more parish-wide gatherings — movie nights, potluck dinners, and seasonal learning opportunities — especially at times beyond Sunday mornings. Teaching, learning, and sharing about Jesus have always been central to her life. In previous parishes, she helped lead a “Next Step” group focused on spiritual growth and was encouraged by clergy to offer reflections at midweek healing services.

When she’s not studying, reading across a wide range of genres, binge-watching a good streaming series, traveling, or spending time with her grandchildren, Dorothy continues to reflect on how best to serve God and God’s people. If she could choose how to be remembered, it would be as faithful, generous, and a supportive listener — someone who brought a little clarity and perhaps a fresh perspective to Scripture.

If you see her at church, don’t hesitate to speak to her. Chances are, you’ll find not only a thoughtful theologian and preacher in formation, but also a warm friend ready to listen and share the journey of faith.