William Larry Byrd

"Home is the sailor, home from the sea, and the hunter, home from the hill."

William Larry Byrd effortlessly climbed the stairs to Jesus's loving arms May 22, 2026. Larry was born June 30, 1945 to Charles Lester Byrd, Jr. and Kathleen Parsons Byrd in Washington DC. Larry grew up in Black Mountain, Asheville, and Burnsville, N.C. After graduating from Cane River High School in Burnsville, he enlisted in the US Air Force serving from 1966 to 1970.  Following his service, he spent a short period at University of South Florida. He returned to North Carolina and enrolled at Mars Hill University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in science in 1974. He retired from the V.A. Hospital (Asheville) after more than 30 years of loyal service.

Larry was a great basketball player in high school and enjoyed watching basketball and almost every other sport throughout his life. He loved fishing, hunting, and being outdoors. He loved animals and especially his Jack Russell terrier, Jackson. He loved American history, particularly civil war history. His memory of his own family's history was very sharp and he loved recounting stories to anyone interested. He was a great storyteller like all the Byrds. He was a tender hearted man under his tough exterior and loved and cared for his friends and family more than they know.

Larry is survived by his son, Damon (Anna Foster), brother Ronald James Byrd (Ava Bland), sister Jackie Lynn Byrd (Gary Carter), brothers Sam Byrd (Sally) and Dru Byrd, sister Sue Isom, nephew Jeremiah Isom (Carrie Hinds), nieces Melissa Roberts (Daniel), Samantha Byrd, and his very close, dear friend Shirley Entwistle. 

Larry is preceded in death by brothers, Thomas Collins "Tom" Byrd and Richard Harry "Bob" Byrd. 

Larry's family and friends will miss him dearly and always cherish fond memories of his humor, kindness, and rebellious spirit. 

The family will have a celebration of life at a later date for friends and family. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please pray for God's comforting of family and friends grieving the loss of their friend. Those who knew him know he is praising God as he walks the pristine forest of heaven with the ones who have gone before him.

...and the hunter, home from the hill.

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