DURHAM: John W. Byrd, Jr. "Sonny", born January 7, 1932, the son of the late Ella Mae and John W. Byrd, Sr., died of natural causes on September 2, 2021 at his home. In addition to his parents, Sonny was also predeceased by his son, John W. Byrd III; and sisters, Frances Strayhorn and Maxine Magurean.
Sonny was a faithful member of Homestead Heights/Summit Church. He was also deacon and a church greeter. Sonny lived an active life. He loved his family, the beach and flowers. He enjoyed golf and wood-working. There was nothing he could not fix.
Sonny took great pride in his work as Manager of restaurants and his years working at Liggett and Myers. He was well traveled, going to Jerusalem, mission trips within the U.S. and other trips with his wife.
Sonny is survived by his wife of 39 years, Dalphna K. Byrd; daughter, Becky May (Gerald); and son, Myron (Cindy). He is also survived by his granddaughter, Tammy Hutchins (Stan); grandsons, David Wilson (Sheryl), Bryan Kidd (Michelle) and Mark Kidd; 7 great-grandchildren, Cody Alley, Kyle Alley, Courtnee Wilson, Nathan Wilson, Hunter Kidd, Leah Kidd and Reece Kidd; and brother-in-law, Michael Dixon.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00p.m. on Saturday, September 4th at Braggtown Baptist Church. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:00 to 1:45 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow the services in Poole Family Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Bryan Kidd, Mark Kidd, Hunter Kidd, Scott Penny, Alan Whitlow and David Wilson.
Flowers are acceptable or memorial contributions may be made to Summit Church: Attn: Contributions, 2335-114 Presidential Dr., Durham, NC 27703; or a charity of your choice.
The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. in Durham. Online condolences may be sent to www.clementsfuneralservice.com.
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