Steven Byrd

STEVEN K. BYRD Atlanta- Steven K. Byrd, 61, of Atlanta, GA passed away at his home Sunday, August 23 2015. A native of Kingsport, Steven was born June 21, 1954 into his loving family; father and mother, Conley K and Margaret G. Byrd and devoted sister, Connie L. Byrd. Nurtured in this peaceful and loving environment he was encouraged to pursue his dreams and God given talents of art and music. Concentrating on his visual art and love of nature, he portrayed this in wonderful peaceful paintings. His first art teacher, Don Hilton of Ketron High School helped him further his skills. He went onto graduate with honors from East Tennessee State University in 1976 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Art Education. He shared his wonderful talent with his students in the Sullivan County school system for several years. He also opened his Steven K. Byrd Gallery in Kingsport and later moved it to Atlanta, GA in 1991. Once there, he established himself as a well-respected artist and his reputation was his advertising. His work appeared in Traditional Homes Magazine along with other magazines. He was a success in juried art shows having won many and some of his winning paintings toured the South with other winning entries. In 2012 he faced the challenge of cancer with the fortitude as he did with everything in life. Always kind and considerate of others, he practiced his philosophy of love and compassion to all creatures great and small. He is survived by his beloved mother, Margaret G Byrd; sister, Connie L. Byrd; very close friend and partner, Mark Venable; along with his loved, special cousins and friends which he was blessed with many. Thanks to his physicians, Dr. Kuzniak and Dr. Jonas who helped him put up a good fight and run his good race against all odds. A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday (August 30, 2015) at 1p.m. in the chapel at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport with Pastor J.W. Depew, officiating. A graveside service will follow at Gunnings Church Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers. You can send an online condolence to the family by visiting www.cartertrent.com. Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport is serving the Byrd family.