Julia Hattie Byers, 78, returned to her heavenly home on May 11, 2016 after a valiant battle with an extended illness. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace. She was born to the late Dewey and Girlia Beheler on November 20, 1938. She was a member of Grays Creek Baptist Church and retired from Kmart of Forest City after 14 years of dedicated service.

She is survived by one daughter, Debra Robbins of Forest City; grandson Chris Robbins and wife Summer of Spartanburg, SC; granddaughter Lisa Fleming and husband Josh of Rutherfordton; brother Junior Beheler; four sisters, Beulah Blanton, Helen Hensley, Joann Jones and Colleen McGill. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Byers, sister, Minnie Cole and brother, Jimmy Beheler.

Funeral services will be held 11AM Saturday, May 14, 2016 at Grays Creek Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, May 13, 2016 from 5 until 7 PM at Crowe's Mortuary in Rutherfordton.

Online condolences at crowemortuary.com

Crowe's Mortuary is assisting the Byers family.