Herbert (Herbie) Byrd

HERBERT (HERBIE) BYRD, 87, of Little Rock died Fri., April 29, 2016. He was born on July 16, 1928 in Tryronzia, Ark. Survivors include his widow, Wanda Huneycutt Byrd. Preceding him were his parents, W.E. and Bernice Pyle Byrd and infant brother, George L. Byrd. Byrd attended Little Rock public schools, Little Rock Junior College and its successor, the University of Little Rock (now UALR). His life's work included commercial broadcasting and staff-management with a business-industry organization. Byrd's name and voice became very well-known during a broadcast career which spanned 40 years, including coverage of governors Orval Faubus, Winthrop Rockefeller, Dale Bumpers, David Pryor, Bill Clinton and Frank White. He was the first broadcaster in Arkansas to originate live-broadcasts of news events from the scenes of the events. During the Korean War he served in the Air Force. Overseas, his regular duties included special assignments with Armed Forces Radio Services and as co-editor of the base newspaper while stationed at Itazuke Air Force Base, Japan. Memorials may be made to a favorite charity. Interment will be private. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Herbie's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.