Cover photo for William "Byl" M. Harriell's Obituary
William "Byl" M. Harriell Profile Photo

William "Byl" M. Harriell

October 8, 1950 — December 8, 2022

Little Rock

William "Byl" M. Harriell

William (Byl) M. Harriell died on December 8, 2022. He was the most giving, caring, and compassionate man. If you needed help, he was there. If you needed a friend, he was there. And, he sure would not want an obituary praising him in any way. He was respected and loved by many.

At age 20, he created the production company Bylites. He dedicated his life to his business for more than 50 years. Byl and his team provided audio visual equipment for events both locally and nationwide.  Byl was known for going the extra mile for his clients. He often donated his time, money, and always his special magic to be sure each event was memorable. He produced thousands of events, a few highlights include: Riverfest for 25+ years, The Arkansas Sesquicentennial Celebration, President Clinton’s election night, the Clinton Presidential Center dedication, and the 50th anniversary of the Central High School desegregation. He preferred to stay behind the scenes and avoided the spotlight, but his generosity shone brightly.

A Gathering of Byl’s friends will be held December 11, 2022 at Next Level Events in the Genesis III Room at Union Station, 1400 W Markham, Little Rock. Drop in anytime between 5–7 PM. 

Byl was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Margaret Harriell. He is survived by brother Bob Harriell (Kathy), special friends Ms. Dennis McKelvey and Mr. Chip Vestal, his entire Bylites family, and multiple nieces and nephews.

For more information on his remarkable life, please refer to the 3-page January 27, 2008 Arkansas-Democrat “High Profile” article titled William Harriell.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Women & Children First, ACANSA Arts Festival, the Arkansas Repertory Theater, or the charity of your choice.

In light of increasing scams, all guestbook entries will now be approved by us. At Smith Family Funeral Homes, safeguarding the privacy and personal memories of your loved ones for family and friends is our top priority. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

Guestbook

Visits: 1405

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Send With Love

Send With Love