Robert Edward “Bob” Byrd, 77, of Dawsonville died Friday December 11, 2009 at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital following a period of declining health. Born March 22, 1932 in Dawson County to the late Charlie and Daisy Byrd, Mr. Byrd returned to Dawson County over 20 years ago. He spent 22 years in the U. S. Army where he served in the Korean Conflict and Viet Nam after which he served 10 years in the Special Forces. For many years he owned antique shops in the North Georgia area and also owned a furniture manufacturing company specializing in antique reproductions. Mr. Byrd was also an accomplished artist. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Mildred McAdams and brothers, George Byrd and Marvin Byrd, and grandson, John Seijo. Surviving are his children Robert and Melinda Forman, Colonial Heights, VA, Robena and Daniel Seijo, Weaver, AL, Robert and Michelle Byrd, LaGranga, GA, Wilda Courney, Sawnee; brother and sister in law, Henry and Violet Byrd, Dawsonville; grandchildren, Sarah and Rick Shannon, Ryan and Nikki Foreman, Richard Forman, Jordan Seijo, Branden Byrd, Tyler Byrd and former wife, Mary Jo Byrd, Columbus, GA. Funeral services will be held Tuesday December 15, 2009 at 11 o’clock at Bearden Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Charles Blackstock will officiate. Interment will follow in the Byrd Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 5 until 8 at the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to www.beardenfuneralhome.com. Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.