Jefferson Terrell Byrd III

FAIRFAX - Jefferson Terrell Byrd III, of Fairfax, South Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on July 23rd, 2026, at the age of 77, after an extended battle with cancer.

Affectionately known by some as “Terry” or “Ol’ Man”, but as Jeff to most, he was born on February 12th, 1949, to Minie (Kornegay) and Jefferson Terrell Byrd Jr. of Abbeville, South Carolina, where he was raised and spent his youth. As a boy, Jeff, along with his brother Hank, was raised with a strong sense of loyalty, quick wit, and just the right amount of mischief. He attended Abbeville High School and graduated as a 3-year letterman in both Varsity Football and Varsity Track. He continued his education, graduating with Honors from the University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy. During his tenure at USC, he received many acclamations, including being selected to Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities, receiving the “Most Outstanding Senior” award from both the America Pharmaceutical Association and McKesson and Robbins, and was a member of the Kappa Psi Pharmacy Fraternity where he held numerous positions. Jeff served as President of the Student American Pharmaceutical Association chapter at USC and was a member of the South Carolina Pharmaceutical Association, where he represented SAPHA serving has Chairman at the national convention in San Francisco. and was presented the award for The Most Outstanding Chapter nationwide. He also served on three different Governor’s committees in areas concerning the medical impacts of pharmacy throughout South Carolina.

Jeff worked as a pharmacist for most of his adult life at various hospitals and independent pharmacies. After falling in love with the Upstate, he earned his South Carolina Residential Builder’s License and built his family’s homestead in the early 1980s, which became affectionately known to many as “Turkey Ridge”. He made many wonderful memories there with his beloved wife, Holly, and his two sons, Josh and Daniel. Jeff had many hobbies during his life, primarily embracing the outdoors. Jeff has always been an avid hunter (since the afternoon he skipped football practice during his senior year and harvested his first – and biggest – buck ever), fisherman, extreme backpacker, free-style rock climber, to name a few. He always had a passion for travel and a love of reading. In 2018, Jeff retired from pharmacy to Fairfax, S.C., where he’d always dreamed of spending his days gardening, visiting with friends, and harvesting Low Country bucks.

Marked by a quiet strength and unwavering integrity, Jeff lived a life of deep commitment to the people he loved. He was a devoted father, a loyal friend, and a steady presence in the lives of those lucky enough to know him. His wisdom came gently, his humor was warm, and his love for his family was the truest thing in the world. He had a remarkable talent for making people feel safe, heard, and cherished. Whether he was offering a listening ear, a helping hand, or just his warm, reassuring presence, Jeff was the steady rock so many leaned on. As a father, his love was both fierce and tender. He leaves behind a legacy of love, character, and lessons that will carry forward in the hearts of his sons, as well as many who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jeff is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Holly, his parents (Minnie and Jefferson Byrd), his brother (Henry “Hank” Byrd), many of his extended family, his precious dog, Biskit, and countless life-long friends. He is survived by his two sons, Joshua (Erin) Byrd of Cashiers, N.C. and Danial (Diana) Byrd of Oakway, S.C. He was a proud and devoted “Papa” to his grandchildren, Savannah Jane (“SJ”), Ethan, and Aubrey, whose laughter, love, and accomplishments brought him great joy. For Jeff, there are many friends that he considered family, all of whom he hoped would carry his memory with deep love and enduring gratitude.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched. He will be missed beyond words and loved beyond measure, but we believe we will see him again when we “cross the river”.

A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held on Sunday, August 9th, 2026, at Keith Smith Funeral Services in Allendale, S.C. from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees are kindly asked to wear bright colors or attire to celebrate Jeff’s vibrant spirit rather than traditional black and are encouraged to dress comfortably. The celebration will be an informal gathering that will include a short tribute, speakers, and light finger foods. In lieu of flowers, the family is honoring Jeff’s wishes and requests that donations be made in his honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital: 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Keith Smith Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements. Sign the online guestbook at www.keithsmithfuneralservices.com.