William Franklin Boyd

William Franklin Boyd, 66, passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Forsyth Medical Center. 

Billy was born June 15, 1959, in Winston Salem, NC, to William Luther Boyd and Helen Ring Boyd. 

He graduated from North Forsyth High School in 1977 and attended Western Carolina University. He began working at Hanes Dye and Finishing in 1981 and took great pride in his 38-year service until his retirement in 2019.

Billy was a gifted athlete and true sportsman. He was offered scholarships in both football and baseball. He led the Viking football squad as quarterback while in high school but ultimately chose to pursue his baseball career at WCU. He has numerous records and accolades but one of his proudest achievements was playing in the Valley Baseball League. He enjoyed hunting, collecting guns, and was a classic car enthusiast. Other than watching America's past time, he attended car shows and loved following all sports. He was an avid Boston Celtics and WCU Catamounts fan. Billy was a dog lover and always had his pet boxer by his side. He was a devoted father, and his most prized accomplishment was becoming a Grandpa.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Billy is survived by his sisters, Kathy Boyd and Paula Norman (David); daughter, Lauren Boyd Lane (Dominic); three grandchildren, Luca (5), Geno (2), and Rocco (8 months); and several special nephews and a niece.

A visitation will be held Saturday July 26th from 10-11 am at Hayworth-Miller Rural Hall Chapel. A graveside service will immediately follow at Crestview Memorial Park. 

Memorials may be made to littleleague.org or carolinaboxerrescue.org