Wednesday, October 15, 2014 9:13 am

Clayton “Gene” Byers, age 72, of Forest City, passed away on Friday, October 10, 2014.

Born October 8, 1942 in Rutherford County, he was a son of the late Clayton Katy Byers and Gladys Hammett Byers.  Gene worked for Pike Electric as a lineman for eighteen years and for Cowan Tires for over ten years.  He was a faithful member of Holly Springs Baptist Church and enjoyed gardening, deer hunting and fishing. 

Survivors include one brother, Randy Byers and wife, Rhonda of Dobbinsville; seven sisters, Betty Ann Byers of Rutherfordton, Margaret Byers McDaniel of Dallas, NC, Sophie Byers Cooper and husband, Harold of Campobello, SC, Barbara Byers Hodge and husband, Ronnie of Rutherfordton, Mary Byers Frashier and husband, Mark of Rutherfordton, Debra Byers Frashier and husband, Dean of Forest City and Vicky Byers Hollifield and husband, Ted also of Rutherfordton.  He was also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were conducted at Holly Springs Baptist Church with Reverend Wade Huntley and Reverend Marion Duncan officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery.  

Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK  73123-1718 or to Hospice of Rutherford County, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043.

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.