Shirley Byrd

Kernersville- Mrs. Shirley Ann Ware Byrd, 85, passed away surrounded by her family on Sunday, October 23, 2022, at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home. She was born to Otto and Florence Wells Ware on July 21, 1937 in Kings Mountain, NC.  Shirley graduated in 1959 from Erskine College with a degree in Home Economics.  Soon after graduation Shirley married the love of her life, John H. Byrd Jr.  In their early 20's they moved to Kernersville where they built their home and raised their two sons, Michael and David. Shirley was active in the community.  She was a member of the Fourth of July Association, who conducted the Fourth of July Horse shows and the annual Fourth of July parade. Shirley was instrumental in raising funds for the building of the Kernersville Fourth of July Park. She was a former president of the Kernersville Women’s Club and also a member of the Red Hat Society. Shirley's passion was raising Quarter Horses and showing them. Throughout her show career, she won many events in English and Western saddle, but the highlight was when her prized stallion, Big Boss Solano, won the High Point Reining Championship in the Nation in 1986.  Shirley was known for her strong-will, grit and determination. There was never a challenge she couldn't conquer.  She was devoted to her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her husband of 63 years, John Henry Byrd, Jr.; two sons, James Michael Byrd of Madison, NC and John David Byrd (Lynn) of Belews Creek, NC; four grandchildren, Krystal Byrd, Amy Byrd, Matthew Byrd and Maddi Byrd; and other family members and friends. A special thank you to George Idol and Danielle Wyant for being instrumental in her care.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at Hayworth-Miller Kernersville Chapel. A private family service will be held the following day.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trellis Supportive Care, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com