William R. (Bill) Byrd

Mr. William Richard Byrd, “Bill”, 84, of Sandy Springs, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2015 at home surrounded by prayers. He was born on April 8, 1930 in Hendersonville, Tennessee, the son of Ruth Ackley Byrd and James Byrd. As a young man, he was a gospel singer who regularly performed at the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman Auditorium. He also toured the South singing with groups such as the Plainsmen and the Jordanaires.

His travels brought him to New York City in the 1960s where he met his wife Milissa. There he founded his business ProSeal Plus, a premiere fabric processing firm that has served hotels and resorts around the world for the past 40 years. He moved the business to Lithia Springs, Georgia in 1993. He enjoyed his work, spending time with his family, raising Golden Retrievers, music and cars.

He is survived by his loving wife Milissa; his daughter Katrina Blauvelt, his son-in-law David Blauvelt, granddaughters Carlyn Blauvelt and Evie Blauvelt, all of Marietta, Georgia; and his favorite cousin Betty Jean Smith of Hendersonville, Tennessee.

He will be missed by his family and friends. But we are comforted to know that he is with his Lord singing in God’s heavenly choir.