Mr. Garland Gene Byrd, age 79, of Adairsville passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at AdventHealth Redmond, surrounded by his loved ones.

Garland was born in Rome, GA, on February 6, 1947, to the late Marion Frances Matthews Byrd and O. G. Byrd. He was also preceded in death by his grandmothers, Emma Lee Matthews and Carey Byrd; great-grandmother, Hattie Octavia Byrd; aunts, Mae Jewel Byrd, Mary Carolyn Byrd, Doola Byrd, and Dossey Byrd; uncles, Artis Byrd, Dwight Byrd, and James Bryant Byrd.

He is survived by his loving wife and devoted of 37 years, Lynne Pearson Byrd; son, Marland Keith Byrd; daughter, Angela Byrd; step-mother, Faye Byrd; sister, Shelia Diane Raykovics; brother, Harland Keith Byrd and wife, Carol; half-brother, Jammy Byrd; step-brothers, Darrell Rylie and Harold Rylie, favorite niece, Christie April Byrd; best friends, Stan and Sylvia Bielewski; several nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Garland was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and a man of the Baptist faith who dedicated much of his life to serving his community. He spent many years in law enforcement, working with the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Calhoun Police Department, and serving as a Sergeant with the Adairsville Police Department before later serving as Chief of Police for the City of Kingston. Garland also faithfully served his community for 12 years as a member of the Adairsville City Council.

Outside of his service, Garland had a love for travel and enjoyed seeing the country, having traveled across the United States and visiting nearly every part of it. He especially enjoyed visiting flea markets, collecting treasures, and pursuing his passion as an antique car enthusiast. Garland took great pride in restoring classic cars and showing them at car shows, and he was a member of the Empty Pockets Car Club. He also loved spending time outdoors, often found riding his lawn mower and enjoying the simple pleasures of being outside. Garland will be remembered for his dedication to his community, his love for his family and friends, and the many passions that brought him joy throughout his life.

Honoring Garlands wishes he will be cremated. A celebration of Garland’s life will be held at a later date.

R. Dudley Barton & Son Funeral Home, Adairsville, is in charge of arrangements for Mr. Garland Gene Byrd.