Josh Byrd, a retired correctional officer from North Kern State Prison, passed away Feb. 13, 2025. He worked for the department for nearly 25 years.
Byrd began his career with the department in January 1994 at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center. After graduating the Basic Correctional Officer Academy, he reported to North Kern State Prison in Delano.
He spent his entire career at North Kern, retiring in August 2018.
“Josh was highly respected by his peers and a well-loved member of the North Kern family. Josh was a trusting partner and friend to many and will be deeply missed by all who had the opportunity to know and work with him. At this time of mourning, please keep the Byrd family in your thoughts and prayers,” according to a statement issued by the institution.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Feb. 25, at Myers Funeral Services and Crematory, 248 North E St., Porterville.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
Gina Marie Villarreal, retired pharmacy technician
Gina Marie Villarreal, a retired pharmacy technician, passed away July 23, 2026. She worked at Central California Women’s Facility in…
Jose Rocha, retired correctional officer
Jose Rocha, a retired correctional officer from California State Prison, Sacramento, passed away July 16, 2026. Rocha began his career…
Christopher ‘Jay’ Jordan, retired correctional officer
Christopher ‘Jay’ Jordan, a retired correctional officer from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away July 24, 2026. Jordan started his…
San Quentin mourns passing of Officer Michelle Jones‑Harris
Michelle Jones-Harris, a correctional officer at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away July 21, 2026. Jones-Harris began her career at…
Watch: Agent Byrd memorialized at training center, CMF
Two CDCR memorial ceremonies honored fallen Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, marking one year since his passing. At California Medical Facility…
Ismael Martinez, retired correctional lieutenant
Ismael Martinez, a retired correctional lieutenant from Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla, passed away July 14, 2026. He worked…