Byron J. Douglas, Sr

Byron Jonai Douglas Sr. was born on June 25, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri, to David Sheard and Leotha B. Pinkney. He grew up in Kansas City and continued his education through Job Corps and West High School. He later attended Rockhurst University in Kansas City, where he pursued studies in Culinary Arts and earned his GED.

Byron developed a passion for cooking and worked at Putsch’s on the Country Club Plaza as a Sous Chef. His talents and interests extended well beyond the kitchen. Byron had a love for boxing and participated in Golden Gloves as a heavyweight. He also had a deep appreciation for music and enjoyed DJing and singing.

In 1989, Byron moved to California, where he began a new chapter of his life and continued creating memories with family and friends.

Byron departed this life on September 5, 2026, at Manchester Heights in Baldwin, Missouri, at the age of 69.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David Sheard and Leotha B. Pinkney; his son, Lee J. Douglas Sr.; his brothers, Dale Douglas Jr. and Frank H. Douglas Sr.; his sisters, Dolores McConnell and Eleanor Pledger; and his granddaughter, Myeshia L. Pruett.

Byron leaves to cherish his memory his spouse, Cathy Palmer; his daughters, Kenya N. Allen, Zalana Tyson (Adrian), and Aushalay Meadows; his sons, Johnntae Douglas, Eric Douglas, and Byron J. Douglas Jr.; his bonus daughter, Latavia James; his brother, Tjader Pinkney; his bonus brother, Harlyn Patterson; 25 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family members, loved ones, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Byron will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for cooking, boxing, and music, and the many memories he created with those who knew and loved him.