Larry Steven Byrd, 73, died on Monday, March 31, 2014 at home.  Born in Cleveland County, he was the son of Lucille Johnson Greene and husband Ralph of Shelby and the late William Dallas Byrd.  Larry received his BS in education from Appalachian State University, then did much of his Master’s work at UNC – Chapel Hill and received his Master’s Degree from UNC – Charlotte.   For 35 years he taught 8^th grade earth science at Shelby Junior High School/Middle School.  During his professional career he coached baseball, track, football, basketball and golf.  In his youth he was an excellent baseball player.  Larry loved sports and was an avid UNC fan – loving all things Carolina.  He was a founding member of Wilderness Trail – a group hiking the Appalachian Trail.  He was an active member of Lafayette Street United Methodist Church. 

Larry is survived by his wife Alice M. Byrd; daughter, Susan B. Lankford and husband Scott of Dunnellon, FL; son, Steven Lee Byrd and wife Lori of Raleigh, NC; grandchildren, Michael Budzinski and wife Priscilla of Shelby, NC, Patrick Budzinski of Boone, NC, Ava G. Byrd of Raleigh, NC and Henry D. Byrd of Raleigh, NC; brothers, Terry Byrd and wife Brenda of Ellenboro, NC and Dennis Byrd of Shelby, NC; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Rosie.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00pm on Thursday, April 3, 2014 at Lafayette Street United Methodist Church.  The Rev. Arthur Holland will be officiating.  The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the fellowship hall.  At other times the family will be at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Bob Hamrick or The Blanton Scholarship Fund, c/o Lafayette Street United Methodist Church, 1420 South Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28152.

Cecil M Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Byrd.