Rick Byers

Born on December 7, 1957, Rick Byers passed from this earth on November 18, 2010. He is survived by his beloved children, John Dustin Patterson of Seattle, WA, Tyler Wayne Byers of Greensborough, NC and Brittany Leigh Byers of Kitty Hawk, NC. Rick was cherished by his sisters, Cheryl Schauble, Debbie Wilmoth and Laurie Brown of Washington State, his brother, Steve Byers, of Idaho and all of their families. His ex-wife, Sandi Byers, was a dear friend and remained an important part of Rick’s life.

Rick grew up in a close-knit family in Pullman, Washington, where he excelled in track and football. After high school he attended Washington State University. An ardent sports fan, Rick loved the Cougars and later went on to teach high school track. He was a wonderful son and was devoted to his parents, Wayne and Virgie Byers, until their deaths in 1985. Rick worked with his father in a local lumber company, Standard Lumber, which he later purchased and managed for several years.

In 1996, Rick and his family moved to the Outer Banks of NC, where he continued to work in the lumber and construction industries. Rick was known for his generous spirit and kind heart. He opened his home and believed in giving freely of his time and money in times of need. His compassion and thoughtfulness helped many people and earned him long lasting friendships. Rick had an easy going nature, was fun-loving and creative. Singing karaoke was his favorite past time. He was known around town for his beautiful singing voice, especially his renditions of Elvis Presley songs.

Rick’s greatest joy came from being a parent to his three children, Dustin, Tyler and his “angel” Brittany. He respected their individuality, nurtured their creative talents and always spoke with pride of their many accomplishments. Continue to reach for the stars and find happiness along the way. Your father’s wonderful qualities will continue to live through each of you and through the lives of all he touched. Rest in peace, Rick, and know how much you are loved.

Memorial service to be held at the Jolly Roger Restaurant, 1836 N. Virginia Dare Trail (Mile Post 6-3/4 on the beach road) in Kill Devil Hills on Saturday, December 4, 2010, from 12:00 – 4:00pm. Video tribute begins at 1:00. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Albemarle Hospice or to the American Cancer Society in his mother’s honor.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the on-line register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.