John W. “Bill” Byrd, M.D.
July 10, 1942 - May 15, 2023
Charleston, WV
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John W. “Bill” Byrd, M.D.
July 10, 1942 - May 15, 2023
Charleston, WV
Obituary
Dr. John W. “Bill” Byrd, 80, of Charleston, WV, passed away 15 May, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born in Franklin, WV, on 10 July, 1942, the son of the late Carl and Bernice Byrd of South Charleston, WV.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Beverly Orr of Orlando, FL.
Bill is survived by two sons, John of Irvine, CA, and Dr. Chris and Monica Byrd of Washington DC; three nephews; his beloved wife, true friend and life partner, Gail; and the mother of his children, Tena Keeling of VA.
He was a 1968 graduate WVU School of Medicine, with residencies and fellowships at CAMC, Walter Reed Medical Center, and the Armed Force Institute of Pathology.
He was a decorated Army Veteran of the Vietnam War and was an active member of the Concerned Officers’ Movement, whose activities helped bring an end to that tragic conflict.
He practiced rheumatology in Charleston for 35 years, and never turned away an indigent patient. His special interest was fibromyalgia, having seen his beloved sister suffer from it for many years. He was a member of Beta Kappa Chi National Scientific Honorary Society, and Fellows of the American College of Physicians, and the American College of Rheumatology. He was a Founding Fellow of the original American Rheumatism Association, forerunner of the ACR. He was Relevance Reviewer for the American Board of Internal Medicine. He was a faithful Health Right volunteer.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contribution to Serenity Club, 1225 Ohio Avenue, Dunbar, 25064.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com .
Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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Serenity Club
- Address: 1225 Ohio Avenue, Dunbar, 25064 - (Get Directions)
6 responses to John W. “Bill” Byrd, M.D.
Loretta Gates Day says:
June 4, 2023
Bill will be missed by our family. As our sister Rachel’s husband of 33 years, we came to know his casual side of quirky and charismatic humor and professionally, we were humbled by his insight and deep knowledge of medicine.
Bill and Rachel shared their love of medicine and selflessly worked in the medical field; he as a renowned doctor in the field of rheumatology and she as a nurse and administrator endeavoring to provide the best health care to the public. Knowing the hardships of poverty in the mountains, it was not unusual for Bill to graciously accept a chicken as payment. As any other, their marriage withstood trials but the deep-rooted love they shared and confidence in each other made them a stronger couple for it until her death in 2009.
In our hearts we will always carry fond memories of the time spent with Bill and his sons, John and Chris.
Wishing safe journeys to you, brother-in-law and our deepest sympathy to your fine sons.
The Family of Rachel Gates Byrd
Renae Dunlap says:
May 22, 2023
Very sorry for his family . He was my moms doctor and was a great one he was the only doctor to help her find out she had Fibromyalgia and did whatever he could to help her and she thought very highly of him.
Kathy Young says:
May 22, 2023
Bill was such a good friend to UG and I. Lots of good memories going out to eat. Many prayers for the family. You will be missed Bill.
Lisa Senters says:
May 22, 2023
I was a patient of Dr. Byrd’s for over 25 years. He was a kind man and a good doctor. My condolences to his family.
Tom Titus says:
May 21, 2023
My sympathies for all who new & loved Bill. We went back to First Presbyterian Church of SC and Junior & Senior High schools. Have missed you from South Park Mens Fellowship. Peace to you my friend.