Charles "Pete" Thomas Byrd

Charles “Pete” Thomas Byrd, 82, passed away on April 26, 2025 peacefully in his home surrounded by his family, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was born in Durham, North Carolina to the late Woodrow Wilson Byrd and Lizzie Woodall Byrd.

A proud graduate of Garner High School, Class of 1962, Pete was known for his sense of humor and earning the title “Class Clown” in the early years of life. His quick wit brought laughter and humorous stories of his childhood and early years of life. After High School he joined the United States Army and proudly served the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg from 1962-1965. He also served in the Dominican Civil War conflict in 1965, exemplifying his courage and commitment to his country.

In his professional life, Pete was a skilled Licensed General Contractor known for his craftsmanship, particularly his beautiful inside trim work. Whether building sunrooms for his sibling or creating pulpits, stairways and entertainment centers for his church and family, Pete poured his heart and soul into everything he built.

Pete was widowed by his wife, Olivia A Byrd in 2022. Together they shared 41 years of love, laughter and partnership. He was a member of Creedmoor Road Baptist Church, Raleigh NC. Even though he moved after the passing of his wife to Burlington NC to be closer to his daughter’s to better take care of him. He was never forgotten with phone calls, text messages and cards from the various members of the church family and visits that were made while he was in the hospital numerous times. He was preceded in death by his son Charles Mark Byrd, his sisters, Alice Ann Butts (Lynwood), Laquitta Joy Smith (Wade), nephew Dennis Smith.

Pete leaves behind his children Angie Smith (Brent), Kathy Batten (Marvin), Daphne Cochran (Jason), and Henry Lee Poole, Jr (Betsy Watson). His grandchildren Madyson Batten (Steve Everhart),Austin Cochran, Angela “Brooke” Cochran,and Mark Batten (Katie). His great grandchildren Charlotte Robinson, Paxton Cochran, Ella Batten and Drew Cochran. Pete leaves behind a niece Debby Gordon and nephew Steven “Stevie” Butts.

As Pete’s health declined in his later years, he found comfort in his simple joys of life particularly in watching birds. It was a reminder of the peace he found in God’s creation. Pete’s family finds solace knowing he is now at peace, resting in the presence of His Lord and Savior. His memory will live in the hearts of his family and friends.

Pete’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the wonderful caregivers from Best by Farr Elderly Services, whose attentive and compassionate care allowed Pete to live his final days with dignity. We want to thank AuthoraCare Collective Hospice of Burlington NC for their outstanding service and support during this time. A very special thank you to his church family for always checking in on him with thoughtful cards and text messages.

A celebration of life was held at Creedmoor Road Baptist Church, 6001 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh NC 27612 Saturday May 3, 2025, the service was live streamed and can be viewed through this link, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LNn1gZZE1A

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