Rodger Paul Bird
Rodger Paul Bird, 71, Nassau Bay, Texas, passed away April 11, 2026. He was born June 14, 1954 in Longview, Texas, the son of the late Robert Guy and Marilyn (Oradat) Bird. He married Diane (Becker) Bird on April 28, 2001.
Paul was an active outdoorsman enjoying diving, sailing, hunting, and camping, and was in the process of creating a 426-acre family retreat in the Piney Woods of Liberty County, Texas.
Paul’s career began in computer technology as a programmer/analyst after attending DeVry University in Phoenix, AZ, which led to testing GPS and GIS conversion programs on software and working on linear projects with TXDOT and pipelines companies. He became a Vice President of Universal Ensco Inc., building the GIS services group to support project management with a dynamic suite of mapping applications. These projects eventually led him to form his own GIS consulting business and also brought him many accolades from TXDOT and other energy pipeline clients for his vision and leadership in mapping state roads in Texas and supporting GIS functionality in pipeline routing.
He is survived by his wife, Diane Bird; his son, Brandon Bird; his stepsons Stuart (Hayley) Wirtes and Mitchell (Jennifer) Wirtes; grandchildren Willow and Reed Wirtes; and several nieces and nephews.
A private memorial will be held by the family and invited guests in the coming month.
My deepest condolences to Paul’s family and friends. Twenty years ago, while I was working on my master’s degree, Paul gave me the opportunity to work for him at Universal Ensco. That opportunity changed the course of my life. It led to lifelong friendships and a lifelong career in the pipeline industry.
Paul was always kind, supportive, and a true mentor. I even met my husband through the pipeline industry, and I want his family to know how much my life changed for the better because of Paul. He made a positive impact on so many people’s lives, including mine, and I will always be grateful.