Byron V. Schermerhorn

Byron Vaughn Schermerhorn, 80, of Durham, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 21, 2026, at Hock Family Pavilion.

Byron was born April 20, 1946, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, to Wayne and Martha Schermerhorn.

A proud United States Army veteran, Byron served as a medic with the 583rd Medical Company in Landstuhl, Germany. His dedication to caring for others continued long after his military service and became an important part of his life's work.

In the early 1970s, Byron moved from California to North Carolina and began a long career at Duke University Medical Center, where he worked as a physician assistant in oncology and cared for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Byron became well known among his patients for his exceptional skill in administering chemotherapy. They affectionately called him “The Best Shot East of the Mississippi,” and some were known to travel more than 200 miles specifically to have Byron give their treatments. More than a nickname, it reflected the trust his patients placed in him and the care he gave them during some of the most difficult times in their lives.

Byron was a kind and quiet man with a curious mind and many interests. He had a special love for photography and for birds and wildlife, often capturing them through his camera lens. He enjoyed turning his photographs into handmade postcards and Christmas cards, sharing the beauty he found in nature with family and friends. His interests also included woodworking, stamp collecting, history, and he participated in Civil War reenactments at Bennett Place. A devoted Duke Blue Devils fan, Byron rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on. After retiring from Duke, his love of birds continued through his work at Wild Birds Unlimited in Durham, where he spent many years surrounded by something he truly enjoyed.

Byron had a quiet way of sharing the things he loved with the people around him—whether through a photograph, a handmade card, something he had learned, or simply his presence. Those small and thoughtful pieces of himself will remain with the people who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his siblings, Wayne Schermerhorn (Jill) of Roseburg, Oregon, Naomi Huey of Walla Walla, Washington, and Anne Morris of Chico, California; his sons, Vaughn Schermerhorn (Janel) and Patrick Schermerhorn (Kathy Harper); his stepson, Paul Riley (Wendy); and his stepdaughter, Camille Tapp (David). He is also survived by his former wife and dear friend, Tresa Hilliard, whose friendship and care remained a constant in his life through the years.

Byron also leaves behind five grandchildren: David H. Tapp (Sara), Brent Riley, Gabriel Schermerhorn, Jackson Schermerhorn, and Claire Schermerhorn; three great-grandchildren: Ellie Tapp, Charlie Tapp, and Beau Tapp; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Byron was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Martha Schermerhorn; his sisters, Kathy Devine of Washington, Maureen Chin of Washington, Theis Linkous of Maryland; and his brother, Eugene Schermerhorn of Tennessee.

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate Byron's life on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. for a graveside service at Oak Grove Memorial Cemetery, 3712 Cheek Road, Durham, North Carolina 27704.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Byron's memory.

Byron fought the good fight, and after a life of service, quiet strength, and perseverance, he is now at peace.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7