Remembering Danny Byrd: Canyon Community Mourns a Local Icon

When you think of Canyon, Texas, you think of Palo Duro Canyon, WTAMU, and the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum, just to name a few.  However, when you think of Canyon restaurants, a few come to mind.

One of those restaurants is Feldman's Wrong Way Diner. The restaurant opened in Canyon near the square and then eventually moved to its current location.  Danny Byrd brought this restaurant to Canyon.

Who Was Danny Byrd?

Danny Byrd, a Canyon native and prominent businessman, was an important piece of Canyon. He has made such a big difference in the Canyon community. Not only did he open Feldman's, but he also, at one point, owned the infamous Tex Randall.

The Lumberyard: A Vision Realized

In 2024, a dream of his came true after he purchased the old Canyon lumberyard and turned it into an amazing concert venue and restaurant. Not only did he bring these businesses to Canyon, but he was also such an amazing supporter of the Canyon community.

Danny Byrd passed away, leaving behind an amazing legacy.

Danny Byrd’s Community Impact

According to a post on the Facebook pages of both Feldman's and The Lumberyard, they announced the passing of their beloved founder.

Danny wasn’t just the owner of The Lumberyard and Feldman’s — he was the heart and soul behind them. His vision, laughter, and kindness touched so many lives here in Canyon and beyond. He believed in building more than just places for food, music, and community — he built a family.

Danny Byrd made everyone feel like a family.

I remember meeting Danny for the first time on a phone interview.  I had always heard about Danny Byrd, but I never had a chance to meet him. We chatted for almost an hour about the future venue that became The Lumberyard.

I met him in person for the first time as I got an opportunity to tour the skeleton of what they were creating at The Lumberyard in Canyon in early 2024. I had the best conversation with him before ALS took his voice,  as he was telling me about what that big red barn was about to become, and how excited he was to be able to bring a music venue to the Canyon community.

Read More: The Canyon, Texas Lumberyard To Open as New Local Venue

I remember the first concert at the Lumberyard. I had the station truck and tent set up near the stage, and he and his wife stopped by several times, thanking us for being there and making sure we were being taken care of. I remember how he made me feel, welcomed and important, and I knew that is how he made everyone feel.

Although I only had a moment knowing Danny, he made an impact. He touched thousands of lives, and he will be truly missed.

Feldman's and The Lumberyard Will Be Closed to Honor Danny

Please keep his family, friends, and his work family in your thoughts and prayers. As they honor Danny's life and legacy, both Feldman's Wrong Way Diner and The Lumberyard will be closed on Saturday, September 6th.

Honoring Danny Byrd's Legacy

You can honor Danny’s legacy by enjoying a meal at Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner or experiencing a concert or meal at The Lumberyard. Every visit keeps alive the dream of a man who loved Canyon, Texas.