Virginia Turlington Byrd

Virginia was born in Fayetteville, NC to Dr. Henry Cleveland Turlington and Iris Chappelle Turlington. She lost her father at a young age and grew up in Dunn, NC with her mother and older brother Everett, all of whom have proceeded her in death.

Virginia graduated from Dunn High School, received her bachelor's degree from Duke University and a Masters of Education from UNC-Chapel Hill. She married Carl Leslie Byrd, Jr, of Erwin, NC in 1961. After a few quick moves, they landed in Laurinburg, NC where Virginia taught at Scotland County High School and they raised their three daughters, Leslie, Donna, and Kristin. In 1975, the family moved to Raleigh, NC. Aside from being committed to her family, Virginia was extremely committed to her many students through the years at Sanderson, Enloe, and Apex High Schools. She enjoyed her many years as mentor to the National Honor Society as well as educational professional development.

In addition to family and school involvement, Virginia was an active member of Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, a member of North Ridge Country Club, extremely involved over many years with her book club, and very much enjoyed volunteering through Duke Alumni Association in interviewing undergraduate applicants. Virginia was also a strong advocate for disabled children and primarily supported the Association for Retarded Citizens.

Virginia was a very kind, gentle, and gracious soul. She never spoke an unkind word or intruded or interfered. She never complained and was most often exceptionally pleasant. Even through these final years as she slipped away, she most often had a smile on her face and those who cared for her repeatedly spoke of her as being "so very sweet." Her entire life she gave for others, primarily through her family, her students, and beyond.

After nearly 50 years of marriage, Virginia mourned the death of Carl whom died in 2010. Virginia is survived by her three daughters, Leslie (and Chip) Koscielniak of Raleigh, Donna (and John) Sauers of Hudson, Ohio, and Kristin Byrd of Raleigh. She is also survived by her five granddaughters whom she loved so dearly, Allison and Elizabeth Koscielniak of Raleigh, Caroline and Kimberly Sauers of Hudson, and Megan Sauers of Manhattan, NY.

The family would like to extend much gratitude for those who provided such compassionate care to Virginia these past few years at Falls River Court and then The Oaks at Mayview.

A service to celebrate and honor Virginia's life will be held on Friday, November 11 at 3:00 PM at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church on Fairview Road. Visitation will follow in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hayes Barton United Methodist Church.