John Bowman Byrd, Jr.

Raleigh - John Bowman Byrd Jr., 87, of Raleigh, N.C., loving father and husband,passed away Friday, November 4, 2011. He was born on May 25, 1924 in Charlotte, N.C., and was the son of the late John and Claudia Mae Byrd.His family was proud of the fact the he was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII, and received the Purple Heart. After WWII, he attended NC State College and built a successful career as a Real Estate appraiser in the Raleigh area. He was a man of strong conviction and character, and will leave that legacy for his children and grandchildren. He was an active member and past Master of the William G. Hill Lodge.He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 64 years, Helen H. Byrd; sons, John Byrd and wife Nancy, David Byrd and wife Charlotte, and daughter Karen Betler and her husband Frank; He is also survived by his four grandchildren Kim, Karen, Austin, and Bentley.Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, November 7, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church. The funeral service will be held at 11:00AM. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Raleigh Memorial Park.In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Emmanuel Baptist Church, 2100 Noble Rd., Raleigh, NC.