Mr. Byrd passed away Saturday, November 12, 2016 at his home.
He was born October 13, 1951 at Knoxville, Tennessee to Herman C. Byrd and Dorothy (Nitchmann) Byrd. On August 25, 1973 he was married to Wanda West. Herman graduated from McCluer High School in 1970 and earned his Bachelor of Science in Education Degree from Central Methodist University in 1974. He completed his Master of Science in Education Degree at Missouri State University in 1979, where he was graduate assistant to Robert M. Scott in the Band program. Herman taught band in the public schools of Blair Oaks (1974-1975), Vienna (1975-1978), Potosi (1979-1981), Salem (1981-1985) and West Plains (1985 -2004) where his bands consistently received Honor ratings at state music contests. Since retiring from full time teaching in 2004, Herman has served as a festival judge and clinician throughout the state.
Herman is a member of professional organizations including NAfME/MMEA, Missouri Bandmasters Association, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and Phi Beta Mu. In 2001 he received the first John East Spirit of Orpheus Award. He enjoyed fly fishing and hunting whenever he could. He was active in the United Methodist Church, serving as Lay Leader, Sunday School Teacher, and Music Director at Open Door Worship Center. He loved attending Heartland Ecumenical Camino Weekends.
Herman Byrd conducting the West Plains Zizzer Pride Band