Richard Dean "Spud" Byers

Richard Dean “Spud” Byers age 64, of New Philadelphia, died Monday, August 31, 2026.

Born in Union Hospital at Dover on March 6, 1962, Spud was a son of the late Glen Byers and Marlene Musick Colletti.

After graduating from Indian Valley North High School in 1980, Spud worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator for G.A. Simmons in Brightwood and then owned and operated NBJ Excavating before becoming a truck driver for many years, retiring in 2023.

Spud had a knack for fixing things. He enjoyed tinkering in his garage, riding his Harley, golfing, mowing and snow blowing for his neighbors. He especially enjoyed watching his older grandsons pursue the things they loved—one racing dirt bikes and the other playing basketball. As they grew older, Spud continued to proudly follow his grandson’s basketball career, watching him throughout his high school years and on into college. He took great pride in seeing his grandson carry on the athleticism and competitive spirit that had been such a part of his own life. Additionally, he was a NASCAR and Dale Earnhardt fan, and a longtime member of the Midvale Lions. He loved gardening and had a green-thumb, with the ability to grow beautiful flowers and vegetables.

Surviving are his children, Nacole Moreland, Brooke (Samuel Lawerence) Smith all of New Philadelphia and Justin W. Byers of Columbus; grandchildren, Drew (Mya Gee) Moreland, Brody Moreland, Kroy Smith, Korbyn Smith, Kohen Smith, and an expected granddaughter; siblings, Becky (Larry) Phillips, Traci (Matt) Smith, Michael Byers, and Terry (Allison) Byers as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his mother and father, Spud was preceded in death by brothers, Steve Byers and Jerry Colletti.

In honoring his wishes, cremation care without public services will take place. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia is handling arrangements