Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Jr, 76, passed away unexpectedly on August 31, 2025.
Born in Durham, NC on July 9, 1949, he was the son of the late Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Sr. and Gleta Harris Byrd. Joe was a generous man when it came to helping others or animals in need. He would openly help in any way he could, whether it was a chat, advice, or a simple place to be or stay. His smile was contagious. He knew Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.
Joe cherished his two daughters and their families more than words could express. He would often refer to them as his greatest blessings in life. His dogs were a top priority for him. He loved the beach and to shag. Joe was a graduate of UNC Law School and an attorney in Burke County for many years.
Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Cheryl Byrd Brackett (Chad) and Tonya Byrd Williams; grandchildren, Kreg Fulbright (Sara), Brentani Detter, Leiton Young, Chase Brackett, and Cydney Brackett; great-grandchildren, Triton Fulbright, Josie Fulbright, Stevie Fulbright, Kamden Morris, and Kylie Duckworth; brothers, James Byrd, Philip Byrd (Rhonda), and Eric Byrd; sisters, Elaine Farge, Ann Martin (Frank), and Jane Poteat (Johnny), and four nieces.
The family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date.
Those wishing to honor Joe's Life, a donation can be made to Burke County Friends for Animals.
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" Ephesians 4:32.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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To the family, I want you to know that Joe showed me kindness and friendship. I spent several days working with him on his property. He had me laughing all day. He was very funny. His love for dogs was so special At the time I worked for him he had dogs everywhere I think he had 5 puppies under his bed. He couldn't let even one go cause he was afraid they would t be taken care of He will be missed by a lot of people. I will be praying for the family in the comming weeks.
Dear family I can’t imagine how you feel. I loved Joe. He was a sweet neighbor to my mom and dad bringing them enchiladas he had made. He was a dear friend. You are all in my prayers. Much love
Cheryl, Tonya and the rest of your dear family, I know your worlds have been absolutely shattered!!! Your dad was an amazing man. I always enjoyed our xonversations. I will miss him dearly myself. I reached out to him anytime I had a legal question and he always responded promptly and gave the best advice, then we would do a catch up session. I have wonderful memories from our younger days, I remember us having to go to him when we thought we may be in trouble and needed to be advised!!!! And he always gave it to us straight up and then usually ended the conversation with something like. 'You two dummies!!! What's wrong with you?". (shaking his head as he gave a little chuckle.) Of course it was anything serious. However seeking his advice always gave us the reassurance we nwzseeded. I love that man and I love you guys and if you need me you know I'm here The world is definitely going to miss his presence. But he left u with wonderful warm memories. I am praying you guys.
Had many laughs working with you.. Rest High. Prayers for the family..❤️
I am at a loss of words for this man and this senseless tragedy. I known Joe all my life and Cheryl and Tonya very well from school, Tonya actually went k-12 with me so to say I'm upset to is an understatement. You sit back and wonder why but I've been taught never to ask why something happens. But somewhere in this I hope God can be a beacon of light for this family and help them through this difficult time . God bless y'all Love Brad Reece
My deepest sympathy to you Cheryl and You Tonya. 😥😥 It literally broke my heart when I heard this. I had just talked to your Daddy a week before this.😥. He was such a great guy and an even better friend. We’ve been friends since he was my lawyer at 18 years old when fighting for custody of my son. The most kind caring man that I knew. And the love he had for animals was unreal. He would starve before an animal went without food or water. What a generous and Loving man he was. Always bring you both into the conversation when talking to him. I definitely know your Dad is heaven talking to God and loving on them doggies.❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏
I am at a loss of words for this man and this senseless tragedy. I known Joe all my life and Cheryl and Tonya very well from school, Tonya actually went k-12 with me so to say I'm upset to is an understatement. You sit back and wonder why but I've been taught never to ask why something happens. But somewhere in this I hope God can be a beacon of light for this family and help them through this difficult time . God bless y'all Love Brad Reece
Sincere condolences to the family and friends. Joe was always so kind and enjoyed sharing his love of his daughters.