Obituary – Robert Eugene Byington
Valdosta: Robert Eugene Byington, Sr, age 72, died Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at his home in Valdosta.
Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, March 2, 2013 at Beggs Funeral Home with burial at Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, March 1 from 5 – 8 PM at Beggs Funeral Home.
He was born In Micanopy and moved to Madison before moving to Valdosta in 1987. He was a Blue Grass Musician and played the Banjo with the Georgia Five, and worked as a Deputy at Madison Police Department, and Florida State Trooper. He was a retired Engineer from Norfolk and Southern Railroad.
He is survived by his wife: Patsy Byington of Valdosta; 2 Sons: Robert E Byington Jr (Michelle) of Valdosta, and Russell “Rusty” Byington (Deborah) of Lake Park, GA; 2 step0sons Aaron Sparks (Carrie) of Valdosta, and Shawn Chabot (Jamilyn) of PA,; 1 daughter: Jeri O’Halloran of Valdosta; 1 step- daughter Adrienne Sparks of Valdosta; 2 Brothers: Roger Byington (Loretta) , and Barney “Jr” Byington (Wanda) both of Greenville; 1 sister: Bootsie Cone (Jim) of Greenville; 17 Grandchildren, 4 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great Great Grandchildren.
Donations may be made to American Cancer Society, 2121 SW 16th St., Hopelodge, Gainesville, FL.
Beggs Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements (850)-973-2258.
Robert was my best friend, and I’m sure a lot of yours as well. He taught me so much on my mandolin, even though his main instrument was the banjo. He was always fun to be with and you knew that you had his acceptance. We will never forget him. Love you brother!
My prayers and thoughts are with the family. Robert was one of the most congenial people I have ever known. Never saw him without a smile or a laugh on his face. He will be greatly missed. RIP, my friend.