Cortlan Alan Byron I, 72

September 05, 2025

On the morning of September 5, 2025, Cortlan Alan Byron I peacefully crossed over to the other side. During his brief battle with cancer, his grace, dignity, and sense of humor were alive and well. He will forever be remembered as a humble man, with a smile on his face, and love in his heart.

Cort was born in Harrisburg, PA on January 6, 1953. He was raised in Elizabethtown–a place he would happily call home for the rest of his life. Corty graduated from Elizabethtown High School in 1970. Classmates would no doubt remember him as an actor on the stage in countless plays and musical productions in the 1960s. He was also a busy musician. Bands included ‘Hard Times’, ‘Four Fifths’, ‘Great Society’, and ‘London Fog’. Byron studied business at Lockhaven University in the early 1970s, before his longtime position as Manager of White Sheild Pharmacy in E-Town. In 1985, Cort would become a father.

“He was the greatest Dad I have ever known,” says Corty II. “The road of memories, adventures, and companionship make me feel very grateful. We started ‘The Green Onions’ together. We toured in a little bus, played with The Doobie Brothers, and released original music. He continued to record up until his illness this summer. A posthumous album featuring Dad is already in the works.”

His later years saw him as an Insurance Reviewer for M.I.B. He was also a most devoted and playful Grandfather. Many a memorable afternoon was spent between ‘Pop’ and ‘Bean’. Cort enjoyed his Philly Sports teams, lefty-golfing & bowling, beach & mountain vacations with friends & family, historical road trips, and taking care of all those cats & kittens!

Cort was a man of unconditional love, strong work ethic, respect, integrity, a seeker in spirituality. He was also a man who had the ability to forgive, live generously, and show an abundant amount of kindness to his fellows.

‘The Great Gig In The Sky: A Celebration Of Life Service & Concert’ will be held at Christ Church United Church Of Christ (247 S. Market St. Elizabethtown PA 17022) on Friday, October 10th at 10:30am (luncheon to follow).

Cortlan was preceded in death by Lawrence J. Byron (father), Hazel M. Ebersole Byron (mother), Angela McNaughton Nauman (step-daughter). He is survived by Donna Kritzer (sister), Larry Byron (brother), Shirley Reighard Byron & family (best friend), Cortlan ‘Corty’ Byron II (son), Cortlan N. Byron III (grandson), Katie Martin & family (daughter-in-law), Jennifer Miller & family (niece), Greg Bretz & family (nephew).