Obituary of William Murray Byers

In Loving Memory of William "Buddy" Byers: Celebrating a Life of Character and Determination

Today, we celebrate the life of a remarkable man, William "Buddy" Byers, who on November 8, at the age of 91 and 7/8, peacefully concluded his earthly journey.  Buddy, as most affectionately knew him, lived a life with character, faith, and determination.

In his early years, Buddy was a sports enthusiast. The story he fondly told all of us was when he was a very young boy, he would sit at the rink in full goaltending gear and wait for a team that needed a goalie. In his early years he moved from Saint john to Sussex then Dalhousie where he enjoyed playing baseball, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, building camps, and just being outdoors. But it was on the ice, defending the net in hockey, where he truly stood out. His agility, focus, and courage made him a formidable presence. His love for sports was a testament to his determination and steady spirit.

Buddy was a man of unshakable character. He was guided by a deep faith, which provided him with strength and purpose throughout his life. The love for his wife Norma, with whom he celebrated 70 years of marriage, demonstrated his character and devotion. Additionally, Buddy's heart was moved by a desire to serve, and he undertook mission trips, worked in hockey ministries, and the community and Church, leaving a lasting impact on those he encountered.

Buddy started a new journey with his family in Sussex around 1980 and created Byers & Sons Custom Woodworking. For over 25 years, he honed his craft as a cabinet maker, a testament to the family's strong work ethic. He offered his three sons David, Danny, and Darren a place to learn, grow and develop their own skills. 

One of the best gifts he shared with his children was the ability to do anything. He never had a fear of trying something new. It did not occur to him that he could not accomplish whatever goal he set, from playing hockey as a child, to cutting a hole in the side of his motorhome so he could install a slide out. Buddy was always there to lend a hand to his children whether they lived in B.C., Louisiana, or right here in Sussex. Dad was the one we called, and he never hesitated to be there to help.

Buddy's love for Pepsi was well-known, and he savored it with a passion that brought a smile to those who knew him. His memory lives on in the stories we share, the values he instilled, and the love he offered. Though he has embarked on a new journey, his spirit remains with us, reminding us that with determination and faith, we can accomplish the extraordinary. We celebrate a life well-lived, and a life of character and faith.

Buddy is survived by his children David Byers (Shirley), Dorothy Brown (Wally), Danny Byers (Vicky), Donna Wiggins (Scott), and Darren Byers (Anne), his sister Beatrice Connelly, his grandchildren and great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, NB (506-433-1176). Visitation will be held from Encounter Church (280 St George St) on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 11-1pm. A Celebration of Bud’s life will be held immediately following at 1pm.

Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.