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Kyle Byrd Obituary
Kyle was an honor student at Apex Middle School. He also attended Salem Baptist Church, where he was involved with the youth group and puppet ministry. His other interests were soccer, baseball, hockey, football and basketball; but his true love was music. Kyle was a true community servant, as he volunteered in many areas including being a Jaycee in training and a T-ball coach. He had a great sense of humor, was a great entertainer and clown among his peers in school and youth group. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.
The family will receive friends at Apex Funeral Home,550 W. Williams St., Wednesday, June 27, 2007 between 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Kyle is survived by his parents, James E. Byrd, Jr. and Karen Byrd of Apex; one younger sister, Krysta Byrd; paternal grandmother, Marian Byrd and step grandfather, Connie Jones of Apex; maternal grandparents, Tom and Vicky Herring of Fuquay-Varina; maternal great- grandmother, Evelyn Wiggins of Raeford, NC.
He was preceded in death by a special grandpapa, James E. Byrd, Sr.
The funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 28, 2007 at Salem Baptist Church, officiated by Dr. Jeff Beckett.
Condolences may be made to www.apexfuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kyle Byrd
Gaby Smith
November 18, 2023
We passed Kyle's cross today for the first time. May you continue to feel him loving and guiding his family from beyond.
Elena Lowery
July 21, 2007
I thought I would share this poem with you, it meant a lot to me after my son's passing. lol
LETTER FROM HEAVEN:
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Graham King
July 14, 2007
Kyle Byrd was a great guy. Always make boring things fun. We use to hang out, and hearing him in the band was great. He was great at the music! Rest in peace kyle! We will always keep a spot in our heart for you!
Graham King
Jacob Martinello
July 11, 2007
kyle was the first friend I had up here in NC. He was a special kid and there was something about him that just made your day. I remember the first time I met him at camp he had dressed up with a funny lookin hat and big glasses, he made everyone laugh. You could see it in his eyes that he was who he was and wasnt trying to be anyone else but himself and that was one of the many special things about kyle. Just by being around him taught me many things and I wish he was still here.
shana hankins
July 10, 2007
Karen, Jimmy, and Krysta,
We are so sorry for the loss of your son and brother. I remember when Kyle was almost born on the way to the hospital. I told Jimmy he should have driven the patrol car with lights and sirens, but he had that tbird in the wind. I'll never forget Jimmy putting him in his racing helmet, he looked so comfy and cute.
Please know our family is thinking about ya'll. I know Kyle and his grandaddy are looking out for all of you from heaven.
You are in our prayers,
Lee, Shana, Olivia and Joseph Hankins
Lainey Childrey
July 9, 2007
I had seventh grade with Kyle. we had science and math together. i cannot remember a dull moment in any of those classes. in science we had a cell city project and kyle and i were in the same group. it took us a while, but we eventually got the project done. kyle always kept us on our toes, we never knew what he was going to do next. from the minute anyone met kyle, they knew, or atleast had the idea in the back of their mind, that their lives were going to change from that minute forward. i remember in math we would hook up our graphing calculators and transfer games in the back of the class. haha i think "block-man" was the best. kyle never really cared what other people thought about him, and i think by that, he changed so many peoples lives. i guess big G up there just needed another amazing angel like kyle up there to give him a hand. i only wish i had the time to be better friends with kyle than i was. he is, and always will be, missed greatly. atleast we all know he is in a great place now, and that he is watching over everyone.
rest in peace kyle
Love,
Lainey Childrey
shane slider
July 9, 2007
i didnt know kyle that well. if you asked him i probably wouldnt be one of his friends.
i met him at summer camp for YMCA last year.
just knowing him made my life better. it was only a week but between the endless ssx tricky and the mad dodgeball games it was great.
he went to dillard and was one year above me. i really regret never talking to him.
i can't even imagine how hard it is on you guy's. it was hard on me.
even trying to remember all the good things he did its still hard.
Kevyn Creech
July 4, 2007
For Little Miss Krysta:
Sweetheart, I know you and your family are going through a mighty tough time right now, and I can't imagine how sad you must feel about losing your brother. I know you really loved him lots and lots, and you had a ton of fun with him, too. Jonah, Julian, Evan, and I think he was a cool kid, and we are really glad we got to know him.
Please wrap your arms around your shoulders and squeeze: that's a hug from Miss Kevyn for you. Give your mama and daddy a hug from me, too. You'll be in our hearts and thoughts during this sad time. Please don't hesitate to talk to me or find me at school if you're feeling sad.
Love,
Miss Kevyn (Mrs. Creech)
Ethan Haynes
June 29, 2007
Byrd Family,
I was in the jazz band with kyle, he was always the life of the group. One time when all of the trumpets went to go get a drink of water (break) kyle and austin stayed on their own and kept playing with the rest of the band. Just little things like that made Kyle the way he was. He will never be forgot.
-Ethan Haynes
Concerned Apex neighbor
June 28, 2007
Byrd family,
Although we have never met, my condolences to out to you for the tragic loss of your son, Kyle. Being a fellow Apex citizen, a mother of teenage boys, I wanted you to know that you are being thought of and prayed for by even those in the community you have never met. It sounds like Kyle was a terrific young man and you should be very proud. My 14 yr old son did not know Kyle but has many friends who did and he expressed the sadness they are all feeling. Just know my heart aches for you at this time and I pray you find comfort in family, friends and the joy of Kyle's memory.
Joy Yarborough
June 28, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. May God give you the peace that only He can give !
Joy Warren Yarborough & Family
Aaron Mervin
June 28, 2007
"Byrdman", I am going to miss you so much. You were a great friend and a great person. I had fun with you in band and in general. I am so sad that you are gone but I know that you are with God and I will see you again one day when I get to heaven. Until then, I will do what your Dad said and look for your smile in the sky when I miss you so much down here. I will never forget you.
Jerry & Suzanne Talley McMahan
June 27, 2007
To the Byrd and Herring Families,
We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Lundie McComas
June 27, 2007
Jimmy, Karen and Krista,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I will always remember photographing Kyle on Halloween, and what a sweet boy he was.Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Carolyn and Deja Veale/Bryant
June 27, 2007
Karen, Jimmy and Krysta, I was devastated when I heard about your lost. No words can express what I want to say. I pray that God comforts and keeps you. I can only smile when I think of Kyle beginning to play the trumpet on the stairs in front of Dancebeat. His excitement and determination - Wow. He was so determined. I also remember him quickly getting homework done so that he could move on to really having fun while waiting for Krysta at the studio and Karen you were right there to make sure he had dotted every i and crossed every t. Jimmy you were such a good father to him and Krysta you had such a special bond with big brother. He was an awesome young man and you guys are an awesome family. Please now that I will never forget him or you. Love Carolyn & Deja
Eura Tunstall
June 27, 2007
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there.
I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on the snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the autumn rain.
When you awake in the morning hush.
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of birds circling in flight.
I am the stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there.
I do not sleep.
Karen, Jimmy and family - although I can appreciate the message in the above quote, we all are sharing in your tears for the loss of your son. I send my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Michele Siemasko
June 27, 2007
Dear Jimmy & Karen,& Krysta:Our Family Is So Sad About Your Loss!We Pray For Our Lord & Savior To Give You All Stength & Peace Within Your Hearts!Kyle Will Live On In Your Hearts. He's Home.Amen The Siemasko Family, New Hill N.C.
Marti Nyman
June 27, 2007
The Byrd Family,
We were sorry to hear of your loss. Kyle was in band with our son Chris (the other really blond kid). The night of the Awards ceremony at AMS, Kyle & Chris were standing together in the band room playing some music together and cutting up the way they always did. Both were dressed in black shirts with their blond hair and I remember making a remark about the blond "Men in Black". He was a great kid, and will truly be missed by all who he came in contact with.
We hope and pray that your family will be comforted by the fact that Kyle was so well loved and is now doing his magic in a better place.
May God bless you and comfort you.
Carl, Marti, Chris & Lindsay Nyman
Gail Ball
June 27, 2007
Karen & Jimmy I can't express my sorrow for your loss. I remember Shana & I going to the hospital the day Kyle was born. Jimmy, your father was sitting & rocking Kyle & he stood up & handed him to me & I sat down & rocked him. He was so very precious. I am so very sorry. I wrote a poem that was read at my Mother's funeral that I think of often & a line in it says "We'll say so long for now, and we'll see you again some day, for you are not gone, you are just away". You will see him again & you will always have you wonderful memories. My thoughts & prayers are with you & all of your family.
David Skaggs
June 27, 2007
Jimmy, Karen, Krysta and Family...
I am so very sorry to hear of your great loss. Reading what his friends have wrote of Kyle, he seemed to have been a very special friend to everyone, and someone who could light up a room before he even walked into it. Just know that for whatever reason it may be, and as hard as it is, the Lord had his reason for taking Kyle at such a young age. I am sure Kyle is lighting the way through Heaven for others to follow. My thoughts and prayers are with you Jimmy and Karen.
Kiara Nance
June 26, 2007
Kyle,
I will miss you with all my heart for always. You will always be in my heart. God wanted you for a good reason I dont no why and never will but he is lucky to have you up there with him. I have cried every night sence you have past away. I love you truly. So wait for me up there now and ill love you forever.
Love, Kiara Nicole Nance
Sarah Horton
June 26, 2007
kyle,
at the beginning of the year, i used to bug you a lot, but as the year went on we became better and better friends. you were in my homeroom class [ms. bruners class] & you always made that part of the day one of my favorites. you and zach always made me laugh & i will never forget how funny you were with ms. bruner & ms. howard. you were such an awesome trumpet player and i will never forget the last band performace [: when you came back from spring break & your hair was NEON! i loved it. it just made you even more unique than you already were. in ms. bruners class; whenever we would do a play or something you would always want to be one of the main parts. i loved that you had that kind of confidence. whenever i would come into class, mad that someone made fun of me or made me mad in the last period, you always made everything better, even if you just made me laugh one time. im never going to forget you kyle and i know that as soon as school starts, & later on in the summer, its really going to hit me. im very upset that i cant make your funeral because im out of town, but i know that i will see you someday & i cant wait. i love you kid. i know that everyone misses & loves you so much. i wish that this hadn't been so sudden. i know that your in a better place now, though & im happy for you. i love you[:
Wanda Hanna Groscost
June 26, 2007
Karen, Jimmy and Krysta, I am so sorry about Kyle. I am so far away but you are all in my thoughts and heart.Kyle was such a fine young man. Sorry we don't see each other as much as we should. You'll will all be in my prayers.Stay lose to God and remember all the happy things. Hope to see you'll soon. Love your cousin Wanda
Jennifer Hines
June 26, 2007
Kyle, even though I only met you this year, it feels like I've known you forever. Every day I saw your great smile in school and we had so many fun times. I was just getting to know you before you went to heaven. Wait for me up there and think of everyone down here every day and never forget us, because no one who's ever met you is ever going to forget your great personality. And even though I can't go to the funeral, just know that I'll be thinking of you every minute of it and keeping you in my prayers. I'm gonna miss you so much once it hits me that you really are gone, not just on summer vacation. God works in funny ways, but he must of had a pretty good reason for wanting you up there with him.
Dendi, Steve, Dustin, and Cole Lawrence
June 26, 2007
Jimmy, Karen, and Krysta:
We cannot begin to express our feelings about your loss. We love Kyle with all of our hearts. Your family has always been and will always be extremely special to us and we always have enjoyed the times spent with all of you. You as great christians must know that the Lord needed Kyle and he will keep in safe until we all meet again. Kyle has a new mission in life and we will all be able to live and love through him. Kyle has touched many lives and he will continue to touch each of ours until we see him again. The Lord will comfort you. We love you so much. You are forever in our hearts and prayers.
Dave Herr
June 26, 2007
Kyle played on our Apex Jaycees coach pitch team, sponsored by his mom's company, Byrd and Yates. He was a great kid to have on the team, very positive and fun. We are so sorry to hear of his loss. Peace be with his family. Dave and Matt.
shelby bickel
June 26, 2007
Kyle,
You were such a great friend and I'll always remember the fun times we had together in the hall and at lunch and dances. You were an awsome person and everyone you ever talked to will miss your smile and funny personality. We love you so much.
Steve Moore
June 26, 2007
To my dear friends in the Byrd and Herring Families,
We are greatly saddened by your loss and pray God's strength stays with you.
a concerned stranger
June 26, 2007
I feel that I have known Kyle even though I never met him. It breaks my heart to know that a person such as your son has been taken from us. Based on the entries in this book, I can tell that he made more of a difference on this Earth in his short life than most people do in 80 years. May God be with your family as you mourn the loss of this wonderful boy. Please seek comfort in knowing that those who were touched by Kyle will keep his memory alive forever.
Christine Roberts
June 26, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart truly goes out to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Peter
June 26, 2007
i knew kyle for around 5 years and cant think of one reason not to like him... he is truly great and will always be missed
Kenneth, Willie and Morgan Johnson
June 26, 2007
Jimmy, Karen and Krysta,
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. We remember Kyle from our dance family at Dancebeat and APA. He was always such a nice guy. We will truly keep you and your family in our hearts and prayers.
Jenny Jagdmann
June 26, 2007
Mr. and Mrs. Byrd,
Im really sorry about what happened to Kyle. I knew him really well through school and band and he was the happiest person I've ever met. He could always make us laugh, and I'm sure he wishs he could do that now when everyone is sad. He was the greatest person, and heaven got very lucky. I'm sorry I can't go to the funeral, but I'm going to be there in heart if not in person. Kyle, I miss you a lot, and our classes together would never have been so great if it weren't for you. You made Algebra fun, and only you could do that. Wait for us in heaven Kyle.
Melanie Hnatt
June 26, 2007
Karen, Jimmy, Krysta and family...
Words cannot express how deeply sorry we are at the loss of your beautiful son. He was an absolute joy at the studio and all our travels. He always brought a smile to us. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Hnatts...Jack, Mel, Alli and Julia
Trisha Godwin
June 26, 2007
The Byrd Family,
We have never met but I just wanted to let you know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. As a mother, I can only imagine what you are going through. I understand Kyle was quite a young man and that he will be greatly missed. I hope you can take comfort in knowing he is now safely in the hands of God. God Bless all of you.
Angie Herring
June 26, 2007
Kyle was a wonderful nephew and he is going to be missed, but know that God has a reason for him. He help so many people and loved by many. My son Kody told me the other day that he would never forget his cousin and best friend and for me not to cry because Kyle is still with us and protecting us always. We love you all and we will get through this. Karen you and Jimmy are wonderful people and don't you ever forget that. Love Kyle's Aunt Angie and Kody.
A Friend
June 26, 2007
I went to school with Kyle and played in the band with him At DDMS
he truly was a joy yo be around
and was always positive. he will be missed very much.
Jonathon Reale
June 26, 2007
Kyle, You were my best bud and I will never forget the times that we hung out together. We shared countless memory's in Social Studies with Ms.Badger, in algebra with Mrs. Fraizer, or as you called her "Frazier-Fraze", and on our bus ride home in the front seat. Kyle keep smiling in heaven like you did everyday in school. Keep the party alive and I'll see you soon.
Julia Smith-Easley
June 26, 2007
Jimmy, Karen & Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I hold you in my heart and pray that the angels surround you with their healing arms of love and fill you with beautiful memories of Kyle.
Julia
AHS '82
Martin & Samatha Cox
June 26, 2007
We are sorry for your loss. But be comforted knowing that Kyle is safe at home with the Lord. Our thoughts and Prayers are with your family.
Martin & Samantha Cox
Kit (Zahn) McConnell
June 26, 2007
Jimmy and Karen,
I am so very sorry for your incredible loss. Words can't begin to describe how much my heart has been hurting for you and your family since I found out about your son. You have been in and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Kit
Vickie Smith
June 26, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Debbie Judd
June 26, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. This is a thought of Comfort. We all remember just how much his grandpapa loved Kyle, now they are together. I remember the many photos and conversations we shared about Kyle. God will comfort you.
Jay and Tammy Adcock
June 26, 2007
Jimmy, Karen, and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Know that you are in our thoughts and we are praying for your comfort and God's blessing to strengthen you at this difficult time. May God's eternal promises and everlasting love surround you.
God bless and uphold you now.
abby johnson
June 26, 2007
Kyle,
Even though we werent close friends you would always make me laugh and never did anything wrong or bad to me. If you were still alive i wish we would have gotten to know each other better and become closer friends!!
We all love you kyle!!!! Love,
Abby J
Sonia Hittle
June 26, 2007
Kyle
You were such a great friend! Church was so much fun with you, even if you were late. You always had a smile on your face and made everyone around you smile too. Eating lunch with you this year was a lot of fun and telling everyone that we were cousins was so funny! You always had a way of making my day a little bit brighter! I love and miss you! <3 <3
Kyle Brown (YMCA Friend)
June 26, 2007
Kyle,
You were a great friend to all of us at the YMCA afterschool and at camp. It was fun confusing the counselors with our same name and last initial. I will miss your humor and spirit.
Kevin and Tina Ley
June 26, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. Know that Kyle is home with the Lord, safe and happy.
Kiara Nance
June 26, 2007
Im sorry for your loss. I remember having fun at our Easter egg hunts at Uncle Roberts and Aunt Pattys house. Those were the days. Well the whole family is going to miss you truly.
Love, Kiara Nicole Nance
Sandra Goolsby Strickland
June 26, 2007
May GOD be with all of you at this time. I also lost a son & know the anguish it can cause even years later, but know GOD will see you thru & even thought we don't understand why - GOD had a purpose.
First grade teachers Apex Elementary
June 26, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Julie Goslen
June 26, 2007
I am a friend of Nancy Hayes. My heart truly breaks for you. Please know that you are in my prayers. Your daughter and the promise of heaven will help you through this most difficult time in your life.
Christina Cramer
June 26, 2007
Kyle,
You were such a funny kid. I remember we always would hangout at church when i went with alexys. You were such a great friend. I miss you so much, and im sure everyone else misses you just as much. We all love you <3
Kristie Zothner
June 26, 2007
You were such a great friend. So many people are going to miss you. God bless your family
Elena Lowery
June 26, 2007
I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet son. I can tell by Kyle's picture that he had a personality that would light up a room. I too loss my son, so I know only too well what you are going through. I pray God will give you peace and the strength to carry on. The precious memories he has left you will live on in your hearts forever. God Bless and remember God loves our children and he will take care of them until we are joined with them again...
Kathy & Ron Clark
June 26, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Lisa Galloway
June 26, 2007
May God Bless you all and give you strength to endure. I am a friend of Randy Byrd. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Take care,
Diana Dunlow Stockholm
June 26, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Bonnie Newcomb
June 26, 2007
Sorry for your loss. God Bless.
Linda Barmann
June 26, 2007
You don't know me by heart goes out to you and your family. It is difficult for me to even begin to imagine what you are going though. I can barely write though my tears. I have a 14 year old son and every day I am thankful. He too has many of the traits of your son. You son's wonderful spirit will live on because of the great gifts he gave to many of his friends and loved ones.You are in my prayers. Bless you and your family
Sincerely
Linda B
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