Bayard McIntosh Atwood IV

Bayard McIntosh Atwood IV passed away unexpectedly on May 14, 2026, at UNC Memorial Hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Born on July 29, 1976, in Tehran, Iran, Bayard’s journey was guided by a spirit of curiosity, kindness, and an ever-present playfulness that charmed everyone that knew him.

Bayard’s life was one of both exploration and appreciation. During his earliest years, he and his family lived in many places, including Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Virginia, and Michigan. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Religious Studies from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, NY demonstrating his intellectual curiosity and a global spirit. After moving to Chapel Hill, he embraced his true passion for the culinary arts, obtained an associate’s degree from the renowned Culinary Institute of America, and launched into a career as a fine dining chef. Bayard’s professional path led him through the remarkable kitchens of The Fearrington House Restaurant, Crossroads at The Carolina Inn, and The Sanderling Resort. In his more recent years, he channeled his nurturing nature into pet care by working at Walk and Wag in the Chapel Hill area, tending to the four-legged companions of his community with utmost care.

Bayard approached life with a love of adventure: traveling to new places, immersing himself in live concerts, and savoring unique culinary delights. Music was a constant companion and he delighted in exploring every genre, always eager to discover new artists and share them with those around him. Travel was another passion; he reveled in journeys near and far, crossing the country to see his favorite bands perform and in recent trips through Europe and France, always alongside his beloved wife, Rachell. Bayard's love of food, pop culture, movies, TV, comics, art, and good conversation was matched by his love for his two "feline sous chefs," Seamus and Tully.

He is survived by his wife of twelve years and partner of twenty-six years, Rachell Underhill, with whom he shared a deep and passionate love. His family includes his devoted mother, Cynthia Atwood, and father, Mike Atwood; his brother, Aaron Atwood, and sister-in-law, Carson Capps Atwood; his sister-in-law, Eleanor Underhill, and her partner, Silas Durocher. Bayard's wide circle of love also included numerous treasured friends and colleagues whose shared journeys in travel and life reflect the close bonds he so deeply cherished.

Bayard’s sudden passing leaves an aching void among those who knew him, yet his vibrant spirit endures, reflected in the beauty he created through food, the comfort he gave to animals, and the kindness and laughter he shared with all. His life was a testament to living fully, caring deeply, and embracing every moment with heart and soul. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Bayard's life will take place at 6pm on Friday, September 11, 2026 at the North Carolina Botanical Gardens in Chapel Hill.