The Friends of Long Hunter State Park

James Andrew “Drew” Byrd passed away suddenly on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, at his home.

Anyone who knew Drew knew he had two passions – fishing and his small business. When Drew wasn’t working, he was on the water with his rod and reel. Whether enjoying a peaceful afternoon on Priest Lake or fly fishing on the Caney Fork, Drew was happiest when he was fishing (as long as whoever he brought along with him kept quiet and didn’t scare the fish away!).  

Drew's love of fishing began when he was around 8 or 10 years old and entered a Cub Scout fishing contest at Long Hunter Chase State Park. A contest he easily won by catching fish after fish after fish.

After that, there was no going back. Drew was a fisherman. While most kids spent their summer vacations sleeping in and watching t.v., Drew spent his at Long Hunter. Every morning he was up bright and early, ready for our mom to take him to the park before she went to work, and every afternoon when she picked him up on her way home, he begged to stay longer.  6am to 6pm just wasn't enough.

Given the significance Long Hunter played in Drew's life, we could think of no better way to honor his memory than to support The Friends of Long Hunter State Park. All donations made to this GoFundMe campaign will be paid directly to The Friends of Long Hunter State Park in Drew's memory.

Drew's friends and family may also make contributions directly to Friends of Long Hunter State Park - Donate to Friends of Long Hunter State Park if they would prefer.