Jeffrey "Py" Pyburn

Jeffrey “Py” Pyburn, 68, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026. Born on December 16, 1957, in Birmingham, Alabama, he was the son of Jim and Ann Pyburn.

Jeff was a devoted father, proud “Grandaddy,” beloved brother, respected colleague, and loyal friend. As the patriarch of the Pyburn family, he led with strength, humor, and an unrelenting competitive spirit. His life was defined by determination, resilience, and a deep commitment to excellence in everything he pursued.

A gifted athlete from an early age, Jeff rose to prominence as a Parade All-American quarterback at Cedar Shoals High School in Athens, Georgia. He continued his football career at the University of Georgia, where he played quarterback for the Bulldogs from 1976 to 1979. In addition to football, Jeff excelled on the baseball field as an outfielder, earning All-SEC honors. His athletic achievements culminated in being selected fifth overall in the 1980 Major League Baseball Draft by the San Diego Padres. At the time, the highest draft selection of all time for a Bulldog. He went on to play three seasons within the Padres organization. Jeff later earned an invitation to the Buffalo Bills training camp as a defensive back, nearly four years after his final collegiate football game.

Following his athletic career, Jeff pursued a Law Degree at the Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, graduating in 1986. He built a distinguished career as a tenacious and respected trial attorney, representing both plaintiffs and defendants over nearly four decades. His excellence in the legal profession was widely recognized, including his inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® for Personal Injury Litigation. In 2017, he was honored as “Lawyer of the Year” for Products Liability Litigation.

Above all, Jeff’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his children, Jay Pyburn (Shannon), Aubrey Pyburn Hess (Joe), and Will Pyburn (Sadie); and his cherished grandchildren, Boone, Annie, Bear, and Daisy, who brought immeasurable light to his life. He will be remembered for his deep love of family, his passion for the Georgia Bulldogs, and the lasting impact he made on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85018, beginning at 3:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 4:00 p.m. In honor of Jeff and his lifelong love for the University of Georgia, guests are invited to wear red and black.