Mr. Billy Earnest Byrd, of Buchanan, GA, passed away on July 15, 2011 at the age of 69.
Mr. Byrd proudly served his country as an infantryman in the United States Army serving time in Berlin. Following his military service, he began a career as a commercial fisherman, eventually owning his own boat, the Stanley Butler. His experience repairing diesel engines on fishing boats along with his natural mechanical abilities, eventually led him to a 28-year career as a diesel mechanic, retiring from Yancey Bros. Caterpillar as a heavy equipment mechanic. He was just as talented in the kitchen as he was tearing down an engine, preparing most things from scratch. His “Hummingbird Cake” and barbecue still brings back fond memories to those lucky enough to get a taste. Billy was an animal lover who enjoyed being outdoors; camping, hiking, and panning for gold in the desert. He was a down to earth person who was a hard worker, and a loving father and grandfather.
He is survived by his son, Wayne Byrd and his wife Luann of Villa Rica; daughters Katherine Barao and her husband Kevin of Taunton, MA, Cynthia Hogeland of Fayetteville; grandchildren Trevor Barao, Joseph Barao, Colton Barao, Catherenne Hogeland, Charys Hogeland; sister Betty Colangeli of Palm Bay, FL; brothers Joseph Brown Byrd and his wife Johnnie, of Buchanan and Richard Byrd and his wife Evelyn, of Devine, TX.
Funeral services will be held at the Inman United Methodist Church on Saturday, July 23, 2011 at 11:00 AM with Reverend Steve Swafford and Reverend Chip Daniels officiating. The body will lie in state at the church from 10:30 AM until the time of service. A private internment is scheduled at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA. There is no other public visitation scheduled at this time.
Carl J. Mowell & Son, Fayetteville
