Gary "Byrd" Lynn Asbell
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Byrd's obituary
Gary L. Asbell, affectionately known as "Byrd," was born on August 23, 1951, to W. M. Asbell and Dollie Mae Horne Asbell. He passed away at his home on December 2, 2023.
Byrd was raised in Grady County, Georgia, and graduated from Cairo High School in 1969. His passion for education led him to pursue a law degree, which he achieved in 1990 from FSU College of Law. Throughout his career, Byrd accomplished many notable achievements in the field of law. He was employed by the State of Florida as a Senior Attorney and recently retired after working for the Florida Department of Health.
Apart from his professional pursuits, Byrd had an immense love for music and billiards. He dedicated himself to these passions and showcased his talents at various music venues in South Georgia and North Florida. Early in his young teen years, his love for music blossomed, and he later continued to perform both as a solo artist and as part of bands in the areas.
Byrd's passion for billiards began early as a youngster at Snooks Green Family Teen Center and pool room in Cairo during the early 1960s. It was there that he discovered his talent for the game. Later, in law school, he honed his skills even further and proudly earned two National Collegiate 8-ball Championship Titles.
In his free time, Byrd enjoyed the outdoors, particularly fishing, camping, and playing music on the sandbars and banks of the Ochlocknee River, often around the Hadley Ferry Bridge. He was a reserved individual who spoke his mind when asked, and his exceptional memory greatly enhanced his legal acumen. Byrd touched the lives of many, and his presence will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Daphney Asbell, and their three children, Rosalie Flummer, John Asbell, and Paishe Asbell. Additionally, Gary leaves behind cherished memories for his five grandchildren; Whytnei Bates, Ty Flummer, Zuri Flummer, John (JJ) Angel Asbell, and Aleida Rose Asbell Three brothers; Wayne Asbell, Danny Deason, and Greg Asbell, as well as his close friends Tom Taylor Jr and Jimmy Williams, and a host of other friends and family.
A memorial service for Byrd is planned for Saturday, January 27th at 10:00 AM. The location is Centennial Church 3788 Hadley Ferry Rd, Cairo, GA 39828. It is about a 10-minute drive south of Cairo. All Friends and Family are welcome.
Here is a link to Byrd's Music Video Tribute in his honor. This composition includes photos of his friends and family, videos of him playing music, background songs he composed and some he wrote. Also close to the end is his life story or obituary that coincides with additional photos.
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