William Farley Byrd

I first met Bill last year about this time when we were on a cruise together. Unlike many of you, I don't have a long history of friendship with Bill but I enjoyed the time we spent together. Bill was one of "the good guys" and is missed.

"The better part of one's life, consists of your friendships" My family and my life was made better because of Bill. I met Bill in Aug. of 1981 at Broad Run HS. He had the quick wit we all dream of having. Our XC trip in 1984 was the road trip of a lifetime. We still recalled many of those adventures. Bill was not the best lobsterman but he was a true friend and I'll miss him deeply. I loved visiting Bluefield and his circle of friends were kind to a Yankee. Bill-Slainte!

I first met Bill back in the 70's when he taught at Broad Run High School. How the students loved him both as a teacher and a friend. His enthusiasm for life touched everyone around him. Many years passed before I met him again when we cruised together for his 50th. Even though he was sick from his cancer, he was still the life of the party. I will never forget that 5 days we were together. Bill taught lots of us valuable lessons about living, and, yes, about dying. How wonderful to know he...

Bill, we crossed the seas and celebrated your 50th birthday last February. Thanks for allowing me to be a small part of your life and for the laughter you brought to our little cruise group.

Although I only new Bill for a short time, I recognized that he was "one of a kind," a truly nice guy who was loads of fun to be with. The memories of Bill and the cruise last year will always be treasured in my mind. God Bless you Bill, I will miss you!

I met Bill through Denis, one of Bill's closest friends. Last Year, to celebrate Bill's 50th birthday, he and Denis joined me and some of my girlfriends on a cruise to Key West and Cozmel. WHAT FUN we all had, especially in Key West. Bill added so much to our trip. He would break-out into a movie monologue as we waited in long lines at the airports, having us and other passengers in stitches. Bill you will be missed by many. Your talents have touched many of us. I know you are in a better...

I knew Billy since the 6th grade and graduated with him from GHS. He was always such a happy and cheerful person! He was a true friend to all! We will all miss him ! One day we will all meet him again in heaven! God Bless All his family and friends !

The last time I spoke to Billy was nearly a year ago.In the 30+ years since our high school graduation, he was still the friendly guy he always was...never forgetting his friends here in Bluefield. We all have become more aware of our own mortality with the passing of yet another classmate and friend. May God be with his students, family and all those he cared so much about.

Bill was my best friend nearly 40 years ago. We played music together, played basketball together, attended church together, and grew up together. I have missed contact with him as an adult (except for e-mail). He was an enormous influence on my life and I will miss him.