Max was born on August 11, 1935 in Rutherford County, North Carolina, to parents Lynn Byrd and Ada Byrd (Street). Max graduated from Spindale Central High School and went on to attend Florida State University on a football scholarship. Following his time in college, Max married Barbara Ann Migliarese on July 19, 1958.
Max worked in the bread industry for over 35 years. His 35 years in the industry was dedicated to his work at Flowers Baking Co. Max proudly retired from Flowers Baking Co. in 1998.
During retirement, Max greatly enjoyed golf and coaching baseball with the Babe Ruth Baseball League for many years. He was also a member of the Lake Venice Golf Association Board.
Max was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Barbara, and son-in-law Butch Pietsch.
He is survived by his loving children, John "Randy" Byrd Jr. (Mari Morton), Gina Pietsch, and Anthony "Tony" Byrd(Tangie); brothers Wade(Ellen) Byrd and Bruce(Sibyl) Byrd; and five cherished grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL, on July 31, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Funeral Service at the same location on July 31, 2026, at 11:00 am.
A Committal Service will take place at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL, on July 31, 2026, at 12:00 pm, with a Catered Reception to follow at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL, on July 31, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the Byrd family asks that donations be made to Affinity Hospice Care of Sarasota in Max's name. https://continuumflorida.com/donation/
