Johnny Reece Byrd

Reece Byrd passed away with his family by his side on May 3, 2024, in Cary, North Carolina, at the age of 81. He was born on September 28, 1942, in McGee’s Crossroads in Johnston County, NC. Reece was a beloved family man, known for his jovial and loving nature. He was a dedicated individual who made friends with everyone he met and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Memorial Services will be held 11:00AM Saturday, May 18, 2024 at the Rose & Graham Funeral Home Chapel in Benson. The Family will receive friends immediately following the memorial service.

Reece had a distinguished military career, serving in the National Guard and Army Reserves for 31 years before retiring as a Lt. Colonel. He also dedicated 30 years of his life to the state of North Carolina Department of Corrections. Reece had a passion for teaching as he taught photography and graphic arts at South Johnston High School from 1969-1974. He also had a passion for politics and community service, working as a volunteer at his local voting precinct for over 30 years and numerous political campaigns.

In his leisure time, Reece was a devoted fan of NC State Football, holding season tickets for over 30 years. He was also an avid NASCAR fan, Corvette lover, and a Beach Music enthusiast. His love for the beach was evident during the annual family beach trips, where he would spend hours sunbathing, enjoying a Miller Lite, and listening to beach music. Reece enjoyed seeing live music as a youth at Williams Lake, which later carried over to him regularly attending the Emerald Isle Beach Music Festival.

Reece is survived by his daughter, Heather Byrd Rodgers, and son-in-law Jason Rodgers; granddaughters, Rowan Rodgers, and Sunny Rodgers; as well as his loving brothers and sisters, Medwick Byrd (Loretta), Cronin Byrd (Judy), Wanda Duncan (Freddy), and Joy Barefoot (Larry); and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his daughter Elayna Byrd, his loving partner of 30 years, Barbara Wilder, his ex-wife and lifelong friend, Kaye Byrd, and brother, Bruce Dean Byrd (Judy).

Reece Byrd will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his passion for life, his love for his family and friends, and for being the best father there ever was. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.

Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson, NC.