Barbara McLamb Byrd, 86, passed away on August 21, 2026. She grew up on a farm in the Buies Creek area and attended Campbell College and UNC Chapel Hill. With her husband Billy, she settled to raise a family in Raleigh. Following employment as a high school teacher, a computer programmer, and a systems analyst, she chose to be home for her family and volunteered in many capacities. Barbara was a devoted wife and mother, an advocate for people with special needs, an encourager of parents raising special needs children and a loving friend to many. Most importantly, she was a child of God who knew her Savior Jesus and lived out her faith daily. She was compassionate and cared deeply for others.

Barbara was a member of First Baptist Church of Cary and taught the Joy Sunday School Class for many years. She had a special love for her Joy Sisters. In later years, she attended Faith Bible Fellowship in Raleigh. She was a gifted pianist, an excellent Southern cook, and a very proud Grandmama. Whatever she did, she did with enthusiasm and excellence.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents Herman and Elsie McLamb, husband Billy Dale Byrd, and brother Stewart McLamb. She is survived by daughter Martha Stafford (Rick) of Lillington, son David Byrd of Raleigh, grandsons Christopher Stafford of Masontown, WV, and Timothy Stafford (Monique) of Chester, SC.

The family appreciates the many people who provided care throughout Barbara's long battle with dementia.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 26th, 2026 at Crossroads Church 1301 S Main St, Lillington, NC 27546 at 10:00 AM and a service will follow at 11:00 AM.