Joseph Q. Bird, Jr

In Loving Memory of Joseph Q. Bird, Jr.
September 30, 1941 – May 14, 2026
United States Army and United States Navy Veteran
Joseph Q. Bird Jr., age 84, passed away on May 14, 2026. He was born on September 30, 1941, in Miller County, Georgia, to Joseph and Gladys Bird and was the eldest of four brothers: James, Danny, and Ike. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Danny Bird, and his sister-in-law, Wanda Bird.
Joseph was raised in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, where his family later made their home. He honorably served his country in both the United States Army and the United States Navy. He enlisted in the Army in May 1959 and served until February 1962. In September 1963, he enlisted in the Navy and later served in Vietnam as a Navy Seabee before receiving an honorable discharge in December 1970.
On May 10, 1984, Joseph accepted Christ and devoted his life to serving the Lord. On May 10, 1985, he married Linda, with whom he shared 41 years of marriage. In 1994, Joseph and Linda relocated from DeFuniak Springs, Florida, to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where they founded B.I.R.D Ministries and served as stateside missionaries for 27 years. Since 2001, he had been a licensed member of Worship Center's Ministry Network. In 2021, they moved to Garner, North Carolina, where Joseph continued his faithful service in his church and community, sharing the love of Jesus Christ with others.
Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his children and grandchildren; his brothers, James and Ike; and a host of extended family members and friends. He will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his devotion to his family, and his lifelong commitment to ministry and service.
Funeral arrangements are being finalized. A military funeral and the interment of Joseph’s ashes are planned at Barrancas National Cemetery, located at Naval Air Station Pensacola in Pensacola, Florida. The family will announce additional service details at a later time.
Joseph’s life was a testimony of faith, service, and devotion. May his memory continue to inspire all who knew him and may his legacy of love and steadfast commitment to the Lord endure for generations to come.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Matthew 25:23
