Raleigh, N.C.-Sanford couple William E. “Ed” and Sadie Patterson Byrd were honored Tuesday, April 20, for their exemplary service to the Baptist community. The Byrds received the Baptist Heritage award presented by the Baptist Foundation and the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina.
North Carolina Baptist agencies and institutions come together each year to present the award to individuals and couples who have made a difference. The Byrds, who are benefactors and friends of Campbell University, were honored for their investment and leadership in their church and the community.
A retired land developer in Moore and Lee counties, Byrd spent 38 years with Rod Sullivan, Inc., an independent merchant in Sanford of which he was part owner. The Byrds’ strong belief in Christian higher education, led them to play a pivotal role in the growth of Campbell University. The Byrds established several endowed scholarships and Ed Byrd has served on Campbell’s Board of Trustees and Presidential Board of Advisors. They have participated in numerous capital campaigns, including the construction of the John W. Pope, Jr. Convocation Center, Butler Chapel and the Lundy-Fetterman School of Business. In 2003, Ed Byrd was awarded Campbell’s honorary Doctor of Laws and he has also been a recipient of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan award.
Both Ed and Sadie Byrd have been major contributors of their time and stewardship to their church, Jonesboro Heights Baptist. Ed has served as a deacon, assistant Sunday school teacher and chairman of the Finance Committee, while Sadie has been a longtime member of the church choir, the Women’s Missionary Union, the Prayer Group and Circle, as well as other outreach organizations.
Photo Copy: Ed and Sadie Byrd