Companion Mark A. Byrd was born on January 7, 1959, in Waterbury, Connecticut. He graduated from Wilby High School in 1978, where he excelled as a standout track and field athlete. Immediately after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably in the Air Defense Artillery for 26 years. During his military career, he held every enlisted leadership position except Sergeant Major. While serving, Companion Byrd earned a Bachelor of Science in Management/Computer Information Systems from Park University in 2011.

Companion Byrd joined Prince Hall Masonry in April 1984. He is a member of Sunset Lodge No. 76, where he served as Worshipful Master from 2016 to 2018 and currently serves as the SDDGM for the 25th Masonic District. He is also a member of El Paso Holy Royal Arch Chapter No. 90, where he presently serves as Excellent Scribe; DeMolay Commandery No. 22, where he served as Eminent Commander from 2016 to 2018 and now serves as Prelate; and Lemuel G. Raynor Council No. 8, where he is in his second term as Thrice Illustrious Master.

Companion Byrd joined Rio Grande Consistory No. 24 in 1986 and is also a member of Oro Temple No. 9, A.E.A.O.N.M.S., where he served as Potentate from 2020 to 2021 and currently serves as Lecturer. He enjoys spending time with his daughters and his Masonic family. He is a member of American Legion Post 832 and actively supports the local Cancer Society. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and watching basketball, football, and track and field.