Larry Byrd Jr.

BYRD, Mr. Larry E., age 63 of Franklin, TN, passed away Saturday, January 29, 2011 at his home. Born in Decatur, GA and the oldest of two children. He was a graduate of Decatur High School and attended Georgia State in Atlanta, GA. He was a decorated hero of the Vietnam Conflict, serving his country in the US Army. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor, Purple Heart, Army Commendation for Valor, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and National Defense Service Medal. His life included a very successful career in telecommunications. His work included AT&T Long Lines, South Central Bell & Bellsouth. He retired from Bellsouth in 1991. He was loved by his family and friends and known for his view of life, intellect, compassion and humor. He loved his family and they will miss him dearly. He will also be missed by his many close friends who were able to learn many life lessons from him. Larry was an accomplished man in many areas of life. His knowledge in telecommunications was sought after from experts across the nation. He was a master woodworker, his home is filled with intricate beautiful handmade art, from clocks to amazing wood hearts and eagles. In his early years, he built and raced dragsters. He was a lifelong Nascar fan. His knowledge of Nascar history was second to none. His close friends looked forward each year to their sabbatical to Bristol, TN. Larry was not a man of many words, but when he spoke, one needed to listen because his words were truly meaningful and heartfelt. He recently wrote Susan, his wife who he gave unconditional love, the words from the late Warren Zevon song, "Keep Me In Your Heart". Larry the shadows have fallen and you've run out of breath, we know you left us but we also know you loved us. When we get up in the morning we will keep you in our hearts not only for a while but forever. Preceded in death by mother, Anne Crawford Byrd. Survived by: wife of 22 years, Susan Byrd, Franklin, TN; father, Larry E. Byrd, Sr., Kennesaw, GA; sister, Anita (David) Koch, Marietta, GA; several nieces & nephews and other loving family members and friends; beloved dog, Nicki Jo. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be conducted 1:00 PM Friday, February 11, 2011 at Williamson Memorial Funeral Home. Honorary pallbearers will be nephews, Evan Koch, David Kellerman, Greg, Troy, Devin, Tyler, Ryan, Jeffrey & Shawn Franklin, friends, Jim Spears, Tony Adgent, Bill Ray, Wade Wellman, Glenn Cox, Jerry Jones, Pat Karsch, David Terreo & Quinton Sanders. Memorials may be made to Avalon Hospice 2525 Perimeter Place Drive Suite 121, Nashville, TN 37214 or Williamson County Animal Control 138 Claude Yates Drive Franklin, TN 37064. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service on Friday at WILLIAMSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 615 794-2289. www.williamsonmemorial.com

Visitation Details

Friday, February 11th, 2011 11:00am - 1:00pm, Williamson Memorial Funeral Home

Service Information

Friday, February 11th, 2011 1:00pm, Williamson Memorial Funeral Home