James Byrd "J Byrd", age 75, of Rutherfordton, NC, died Friday, January 1, 2021, at his home.

He was the son of the late Jim Byrd and the late Annie Street Byrd and he was a native of Rutherford County. James was a 2 time past Master Mason at the Western Star Masonic Lodge #91 he was a member of the lodge for 39 years, and he was also a masonic coach and mentor. James was an avid carp fisherman, and he made his own bait for it. James was a self employed rug maker. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Katherine Byrd, and Ethel Byrd Hutchins.

James is survived by:

One daughter, Angie Byrd Cuthbertson, one son, John Christopher Byrd and his wife Donna, one sister, Jane Byrd  Hardin, and three grandsons, Joseph Byrd, Daniel Byrd, and Aaron Cuthbertson, and one great-granddaughter, Emma Byrd.

A graveside service will be at Spindale City Cemetery; 207 Kentucky Street,  at 1:00 PM, Thursday, January 7, 2021 with Masonic Rites by the Western Star Masonic Lodge #91. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Western Star  Lodge #91; P O Box 627; Rutherfordton, NC 28139 An online guest register is available at www.mcmahansfuneralhome.com. McMahan's Funeral Home & Cremation Services in charge of arrangements.