Rachel Arnette Lewis Byrd, 82, passed away on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at her home in Weldon, NC, surrounded by her loving family.

Rachel was the consummate matriarch — a devoted wife, dedicated nurse, loving mother, and celebrated carpool queen. She welcomed all into her home with conversation, kindness, and often a meal. Hosting Sunday dinners with her family was among her greatest joys and she approached each gathering with the grace and care of an impeccable host. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her own family, embracing friends, neighbors, and the countless patients she served with compassion.

As a nurse, Rachel was exceptional. She offered her patients care rooted in deep compassion, dignity, and respect — values she carried throughout her many roles at Roanoke Valley Internal Medicine. She worked tirelessly on behalf of her patients, going above and beyond to ensure they were seen when they needed care and to help secure patient assistance programs that made medications more affordable. She was the warm, welcoming face of Roanoke Valley Internal Medicine, greeting all with a benevolence as unmistakable as her striking white hair.

Born at home in White Plains, VA, on September 30, 1943, Rachel grew up on her family’s tobacco farm with her five siblings before attending the Louise Obici School of Nursing. After receiving her RN, Rachel pursued her dream of seeing the world by joining the United States Air Force and began a life of service that shaped every chapter that followed.

Her military career brought her to the Portsmouth Naval Hospital, where she met her future husband, Dr. William E. Byrd. She achieved the rank of Major and remained in the reserves until 1990, when she received an honorable discharge. Together, they built a medical practice, raised their family, and became strong advocates for their community.

Rachel remained actively involved with her bridge club and was a devoted member of Rosemary United Methodist Church, where she served faithfully in the Women’s Circle.

Upon her retirement, Rachel enjoyed traveling with her husband, spending time with friends, hosting family gatherings, and — most of all — relishing her role as a grandmother.

Rachel is survived by her daughters, Sarah Arnette Byrd and Rebecca Marie Byrd; her son-in-law, Adam Woodruff; and her granddaughters, Sophia Arnette Byrd and Juniper Ruth Byrd Woodruff. She is also survived by her sisters, Carol Salmon (Boyd), Lois Williams (Timmy), Mary-Emily Daily, and Jeannie Doggett as well as her numerous loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. William E. Byrd; her brother, Donald Lewis; and her parents, Marjorie Arnette Mosely Lewis and Edward Lewis.

Rachel’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful women who cared for her throughout her illness; Charmain Harris, Paula Turner, Angela Roberts, Mary Hunt, Lucy Anstead, Ann Hux, Brenda Sledge, and Rochelle Davis. Their love, dedication, and steadfast support reflected the very compassion Rachel embodied throughout her life.

A visitation honoring Rachel’s life will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 12:00 PM in the fellowship hall of Rosemary Methodist Church, 900 Jackson Steet, Roanoke Rapids, NC, 27870. A service will follow at 1:00 PM in the sanctuary with Rev. Keith Porter officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rosemary United Methodist Church.

Arrangements are being handled by locally owned and operated Askew Funeral and Cremation services in Roanoke Rapids.