Jeff Byrd took pride in hosting large crowds at Bristol Motor Speedway. And over the past 14 years, the former general manager of BMS entertained motorsports fans from around the world. Several hundred of those fans returned to NASCAR’s most popular short track Thursday to honor and remember the effervescent ambassador of BMS. Byrd died Sunday after an eight-month battle with cancer. He was 60. As friends and fans entered a large tent set up on the BMS infield, local musician James David Carter performed a stirring rendition of the timeless James Taylor ballad “Fire and Rain.” The evocative piece set the mood for a ceremony rich with heart-wrenching tributes. Byrd was painted as a generous, funny, compassionate and competitive leader who was guided by faith, family, hope and love. Throughout the emotional event, a video montage displayed a wide range of images from Byrd’s life. Several of the speakers and attendees contributed stories of how Byrd impacted lives without ever asking for anything in return. Those anonymous acts ranged from personal donations for charitable causes to various volunteer efforts and goodwill gestures. Each of the 70 BMS employees wore black shirts emblazoned with the now familiar track motto “Exceed Expectations.” Tennessee Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, Food City Chief Executive Officer Steve Smith, Bristol Chamber of Commerce President Lisa Meadows and Bristol television personality Paul Johnson also offered personal stories that illustrated Byrd’s humility and compassion. BMS Director of Media and Public Relations Lori Worley said the track staff members are committed to follow the selfless example of their late mentor.(Bristol Herald Courier)(10-22/24-2010)
