The Wilkes County community is mourning the loss of longtime educator and superintendent Mark Byrd, whose death was confirmed Friday evening by school board leadership.
According to Board Chairman Rudy Holbrook, Byrd passed away on Feb. 20, 2026. As of late Friday night, no cause of death had been released. District officials said additional information would be shared when available.
News of Byrd’s passing quickly spread across Wilkes County, prompting an outpouring of condolences from educators, students, parents and community members.
In a brief statement, the district asked for prayers for Byrd’s family and for the entire school community during what it described as a difficult and heartbreaking time.
Byrd, a Wilkes County native, had deep roots in the community he served. He was in his 10th year as superintendent of Wilkes County Schools, guiding the district through years of growth, academic initiatives and the lingering challenges that followed the COVID-19 pandemic.
Colleagues often described him as steady, approachable and committed to putting students first.
A graduate of North Wilkes High School, Byrd went on to attend Wilkes Community College before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in History and Secondary Education from Appalachian State University in 1994. He later built a career that spanned classrooms, athletic fields and administrative offices.
Before becoming superintendent, Byrd taught civics and world history at North Wilkes High School, where he also coached football and men’s track.
Former students have recalled his enthusiasm for history and his ability to connect lessons to real-world issues. As a coach, he was known for emphasizing discipline, teamwork and character as much as athletic performance.
When he stepped into the superintendent’s role, Byrd brought with him firsthand knowledge of the district’s schools and families.
Supporters say that perspective shaped his leadership style. He frequently attended school events, athletic competitions and community gatherings, maintaining close ties with teachers and principals across the county.
During his tenure, Wilkes County Schools worked to expand academic opportunities, strengthen career and technical education programs and improve campus facilities.
Byrd was also active in regional and statewide education discussions, advocating for resources and policies he believed would benefit rural school systems like Wilkes.
Friday’s announcement stunned many who had worked alongside him for years. Staff members described him as a calm presence during times of uncertainty and a leader who valued collaboration. Parents took to social media to express gratitude for his years of service and to offer prayers for his family.
As the district begins to navigate the days ahead, school board members are expected to outline plans for interim leadership. In the meantime, counseling resources are anticipated to be made available to students and staff as they process the loss.
For Wilkes County, Byrd’s death marks the end of an era in local education. His career, rooted in the same schools he once attended, reflected a lifelong commitment to the community that shaped him.
Those who knew him say his impact will be felt not only in policy decisions and programs, but in the countless students he taught, coached and encouraged over more than three decades in education.
This remains a developing story, and further details are expected as officials release additional information.
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