Corey Allen Byrd, born February 6, 1991, in Alleghany County, passed away on March 31, 2025, in Botetourt County.

Corey will lovingly be remembered as the sweetest and kindest soul, a true pleasure to have known. He possessed a boundless generosity, the type of person who would give the shirt off his back without hesitation. His infectious sense of humor could leave anyone doubled over with laughter. He was the best undiscovered comedian around. Corey adored all animals, especially his beloved dog, Leroy.

He was everything to his mother, Michele Frye, and his father, Gilbert Perry Smith Jr., and he touched the lives of everyone he met, including the love of his life, Melissa Richmond. His constant happiness and the joy he brought simply by being present will be deeply missed. His spontaneous visits and family cookouts, filled with laughter and play with the kids, will leave a void in many hearts.

Family was the cornerstone of Corey’s life, and he shared a deep and loving bond with each of his siblings: Derrick Littrell Byrd, Secret Latay Hunter, Rashina Latay Hunter, and Alisha Janae Frye, and Shae Destiny Smith.  His connection with Derrick, his “Irish twin,” was especially profound, a unique and powerful bond that words can hardly describe. His grandmother, Leatha “NaNa” Smith, held a cherished place in his heart, and he treasured their daily conversations, as well as his grandmother Boneta Steltz.

Corey is survived by his beloved son, Kyndall Putnam, his mother, Michele Frye, his father, Gilbert Perry Smith Jr., his siblings, grandmothers, girlfriend Melissa, uncle Barry Smith, aunt Aurelia Jackson and aunt Lynn Smith.  He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Gilbert Perry Smith Sr. and Robert Littrell White Sr., as well as his uncle, Stephen (Looney) Smith.

The family will receive friends at Arritt Funeral Home, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 3-5:00 PM in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home.

Friends wishing to send tributes online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.