Mary Elizabeth Byrd

Mary Elizabeth “Beth” Byrd, 90, passed away on Friday, March 10, 2023, at her home.

Beth was born on June 3, 1932 to Colon O. and Mabel Morgan Byrd. She earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Food and Nutrition from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and taught young Egyptian women food and nutrition for 2 years in Cairo, Egypt. Upon her return home, Beth earned a master’s degree in Library Science from the University of Tennessee. She worked as a librarian at High Point Central High School until her retirement.

Beth had a passion for lifelong learning, and was known as a sweet, humble lady who always wore a smile. She enjoyed working in her garden, canning vegetables, watching PBS culinary programs, and reading her Bible.

Beth was a third Mother to her two nieces, who played with her and grew up next door. As the next generation of children was born to the nieces, they too became playmates and friends of Beth. She was a valuable resource in areas of cooking, genealogy, and family history to many of her extended family   Beth had a big heart and love for the earth and its care, and preserving its resources.  There is now great comfort knowing she is with her Heavenly Father who provides life after death.

Beth is survived by her sister, Brent B. Hanner (James) of Randleman, sister Miriam B. Campbell of Greensboro, and sister-in-law Joan H. Byrd of Savannah, GA. In addition, she is survived by her two loving nieces: Ellen H. Robbins (Steve) of Sophia, and Nancy “Nan” H. Medlin (John) of Raleigh. She is also survived by several great-nieces, a great-nephew, and cousins and friends.

Ms. Byrd was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Jack M. Byrd, and her brother-in-law, B. Jerry Campbell.

A public visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, from 1:00-1:45pm at First United Methodist Church of Randleman, with a funeral service following at 2:00pm, 301 S. Main St. Randleman, NC 27317. Burial will follow the service at Holly Spring Friends Meeting Cemetery, 2938 Holly Spring Rd. Ramseur, NC 27316. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church of Randleman, 301 S. Main St. Randleman, NC 27317.