Neil McArthur Byrd

Neil was born in Lee County to the late Luther and Lizzie Womack Byrd. After school he joined the US Army and served in the Korean War where he was awarded the Purple Heart and Infantry Combat badge. Mr. Byrd was employed as an insurance agent for several years and retired from the Guilford County Sheriff’s office as a detention officer at the prison farm.

He was married to Winnie Mae Sorrell Byrd for approximately fifty years until her death in 2004. They worked and raised two sons together and enjoyed traveling and dancing. Neil was extremely friendly, loved to joke and was never fully dressed without a smile. He was a wonderful provider for his family who put their needs before his own. His grandsons had a special place in his heart as did his beautiful wife whom he took care of prior to her death. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing and gardening.

He is survived by his sons, Garland (Sharon) Byrd of Browns Summit and Neil M. Byrd Jr. of the home; brother, Tillman Byrd of Broadway; grandsons, Jeff, Jeremy (Megan) and Justin Byrd; niece, Sue (Gene) Vester; nephew, Walter (Tamara) Clarey and special friend, Shirley Branson. In addition to his wife and parents, he is preceded in death by a sister, Ella Byrd McCain.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301 Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. Online condolences may be made to www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com. Hanes-Lineberry N. Elm chapel is assisting the Byrd family.