Donald E. Byrd 80, of Saulda, N.C. went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2014. He was a GE employee for 37 years at East Flat Rock, N.C.

He was preceded in death by his son Kevin Byrd; loving parents, Ray and Lucy Byrd; brother, William Byrd; sisters, Betty Jo Jones and Margret Byrd.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Delia Ann Gravely Byrd, son Mark, and his wife Jennifer. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Makayla (Daniel) Bennett, Jamie (Emily) Smith, Jessica (Chris) Sanders, and Jerrica Smith; great grandchildren, Chloe and Abel. Also surviving are his sisters, Mary (John) Marona of Etowah, Ruby Byrd of Roanoke, Va.; brothers, Harry (Geneva) Byrd of Horse Shoe, N.C., John Byrd of Scottsdale, Ariz., David (Brenda) Byrd of Horse Shoe, N.C., along with numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces, nephews.

A service was held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2014 at the First Baptist Church of Saluda with the family receiving friends from 1 – 2:30 prior to the service with Rev. Tony Reese and Rev. Robert Garren officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Saluda: 213 Henderson St., Saluda, N.C. 28773.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.AshevilleMortuaryServices.com.