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William J “Bill” Byrd, 65, of Elizabethton, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, October 8, 2023, at his residence. Bill was born in Elizabethton, July 5, 1958. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Joan Mottern Byrd.
Bill graduated from Elizabethton High School in 1976. He was a 1981 graduate of East Tennessee State University where he received his bachelor’s degree in science with a major in History. He received his Doctor of Jurisprudence degree in 1984 from the University of Tennessee School of Law.
Bill was a reserved person, did not like attention to be focused on him and had a service heart to help his fellow man and clients when in need.
Bill practiced law in the law firm of Norris, Bush and Byrd. He was a member of the Carter County and Tennessee Bar Association and had practiced law in Elizabethton for over 35 years. Bill was well-respected by his peers and was one of the most respected attorneys in Carter County.
He was a great fan of University of Tennessee sports, especially football, and loved to tailgate in Knoxville with his friends.
Bill was a great cook, especially smoking meat outdoors with the wonderful smell of the smoked meat spreading throughout the neighborhood.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Kaye Ingram Byrd; a brother and sister-in-law, Dr. David Byrd and Dr. Jenny Byrd of Athens, Tenn.; a nephew, Will Byrd; a niece, Katie Byrd; and a very special aunt, Ruth Salts.
A service to remember Bill’s life was held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, October 11, at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Rev. Greg Whitehead officiated at the service. Active pallbearers were David Bush, Lanny Norris, Caleb McDaniel, Brent Sluder, David Mills and David Pinckard. The family requests those wishing to make a donation in memory of Bill may donate to the Building Fund of Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church, 1502 Riverview Drive, Elizabethton, TN 37643.
Tetrick Funeral Home, 211 North Riverside Drive, Elizabethton, is serving the family of Bill Byrd.