Steven Roy Byrd

With heartbreak, the family of Steven Roy Byrd, 53, of Sawmills share that he passed away suddenly at home of natural causes on June 30, 2026.

Born September 21, 1972 to Lester Steven Byrd and Barbara Byrd Sides of Lenoir, Steve was the baby and lovingly dubbed himself, “the fun one of the family.” Steve was preceded in death by his mother and father, but is survived by his two sisters Phyllis Byrd of Morganton, Marsha Graham (Michael) of New Salem, his stepfather Cary Wayne Sides of Lenoir, and his aunt Linda Spears (Kevin) of Granite Falls. As well as nephews and nieces that he adored Jeffrey, Amy, Christina, and Nelson. In addition, he was the loving and fun uncle to great nieces and nephews Ella, Brennan, Lawson, Hudson, Abigail and Ainsley. He also leaves behind his longtime girlfriend Angela McLean Johnston of Lenoir and her grandchildren Jason and Bella who affectionately gave him the nickname ‘Pop Pop’.

Growing up Steve was active in athletics and clubs such as drama, Quiz Bowl, and Beta Club. In fact, Steve served as 1989 Beta Club president for the State of North Carolina. Steve earned his Bachelor’s in Business at Guilford College. Over the years, Steve worked as a manager for several different companies. Blending work with his love of music, Steve managed a Record Bar, Blockbuster Music, Turtles Music, and Media Play. Steve’s legacy and love of music is kept alive through his daughter, Davis Fennell (Matthew) of Conover. For the past two years, Steve relished being Pop Pop to Davis’ daughter Lela showering her with elaborate toys that Davis struggled to fit in her home. It is no coincidence that Lela also loves all types of music.

Steve worked at Allen Industries for the past twelve years as a well-respected Lead Construction Project Manager. Steve was a dedicated and loyal friend to many with varied interests such as concerts, golf trips, Bingo nights at the Blue Moose Lodge, or taking work calls with his cat Athena. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 11:00 am at First Presbyterian Church in Boone, NC with Reverend Larke Blanton officiating.

Evans Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of Steven Roy Byrd.