"His Lord said to him, "Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into your rest; enter into the joy of your Lord." Matthew 25:21

Surrounded by his loving family, Neal Carlton Byrd, Sr., 80, of Mullins passed away peacefully on Friday, October 24, 2025, at McLeod Hospice House in Florence. He was born in Dillon County on October 27, 1944, the son of the late Deans Byrd and the late Effie Leona Richardson Byrd.

Neal's family meant the world to him, and that love showed in every moment they spent together, even as dementia stole his memories. Neal and Betty met after high school and were married for the past 59 years. They built a beautiful life together filled with love, faith, family, and friends. His children and grandchildren filled him with an even greater joy.

Neal was a graduate of Latta High School and the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy. While at Latta High School, he was a member of the marching band. This carried over into his adult life as many people fondly remember him as a member of the Pee Dee Shriners and the Omar Band. He marched in many parades to raise awareness for the Shriners Hospital for Children. He was a Mason and lifetime member of Damascus Lodge 161. He also served six years in the National Guard.  He enjoyed the fun, fellowship, and giving back that membership in these organizations allowed him.

A former Highway Patrolman and public servant, Neal dedicated his career to law enforcement, serving with distinction for 25 years with the S.C. Highway Patrol. His commitment to protecting and serving others was unwavering. He spoke with pride about his time with the patrol. Upon his retirement in 1989, he devoted his time to farming. He loved the land, and his strong work ethic served him well as he strived to take care of the farm and his family. He was a devoted member of Mullins First Baptist Church and the Men's Fellowship Class.  He truly abounded in the work of the Lord.

In addition to his parents, Neal was predeceased by a brother, Deans Byrd, Jr.

He is survived by his wife and soulmate, Betty Dove Byrd; a son, Neal Carlton Byrd, Jr, (Stephanie); a daughter, Kathy Byrd Tiller (Ronald); three grandchildren, William Neal Bass, Neal Carlton Byrd, III, and Carley Nicole Byrd; a sister, Flora Alice Woodle of Sumter; brother-in-law, Bobby Dove, and a longtime friend, Patrick Brown.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, October 26, 2025, at Meares Funeral Home in Mullins. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 27th in the chapel of Meares Funeral Home with Reverend Robbie Baxley officiating. The family will lay Neal to rest in a private committal service at Hopewell Cemetery in Fork.

If you would like to remember Neal, the family suggests that donations be made in his memory to Mullins First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 443, Mullins, South Carolina 29574.

While his journey on this earth may be over, his eternal life is just beginning. The legacy of his love and the strength of his character will continue to guide a family that adored him.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.

Meares Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.