Obituary of Charles Orie Byrd

Charles Orie Byrd, 80 of Vinton, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2025 in Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.  He was born February 14, 1944, a son of the late Thee Orie “T.O.” Byrd and Ethel Davis Tuck Byrd.  He was also preceded in death by a brother, C. D. Byrd. 

His passion in life was excavating and farming and he owned and operated C & B Excavating for forty years. He was a family man and was always willing to help others.  He always knew the right words and how to steer someone back on the right track when they veered off course.  When someone was in need, he was always there to lend a helping hand without being asked.  Charlie had bronchomalacia.  He never allowed this to stand in his way and make this his story.  He stood strong each and every day and moved forward.  He never asked "why me" and never complained, he took this disease with pride and grace. He thanked God each and every day for the time he was given with this family and friends and able to work every day.  

He had a passion for the Lord and always said "take one day at a time and enjoy the people in your path because there will come a time when we won't be with them."  When life is tough, he said "give it to God and he will show you a path and give you the answers and above all, read the Bible, it's in that book."

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Fix Byrd; his son, Stuart Byrd (Susan); daughter, Katrina Byrd; a granddaughter, Jessica Curry (Trevor); his great grandson, Ryland Curry and granddaughter, Addyson Curry; his sisters-in-law, Louise Byrd, Sandy Hodges; his brothers-in-law, Dwight Fix (Betsy), Gary Fix (Ruth).  

A special thanks to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital ER Department, Pulmonary and ICU and Nurse Spencer as well as friends and family who visited.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10 AM on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford and a funeral service will follow at 11 AM in the chapel with Rev. Vernon DeLong officiating.  Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery.   

The family requests that everyone dress casual.