Obituary of Margaret "Peggy" Byrne

Margaret (Peggy) Byrne (nee Welsh) passed on July 13, 2024 the way she entered September 22, 1933, surrounded by the love of family.

Born to Josephine and John Welsh in Hoboken, NJ she grew up in a close-knit Catholic family; taking to heart the principles of compassion, kindness, and unwavering faith in God that guided her throughout her life.

A College of Saint Elizabeth graduate, Peggy worked at Overlook Hospital in Summit, NJ for a few years before marrying Thomas E. Byrne, Jr.  Their 60-year union included establishing homes in New Jersey; Pittsford, NY and New Canaan, CT.  They were blessed with children: Thomas (Arden), Edward, John, and Maureen. 

She was an active homemaker: sewing clothes, costumes, and home furnishings; knitting afghans, hats and mittens; creating signature culinary delights: “Big Pot” soup, homemade applesauce, and what became affectionately known as Mimi’s mac & cheese by her grandchildren. She delved into being a Den Mother, Girl Scout Leader, softball coach, BASH coordinator as well as a volunteer in parish activities at St Louis (Pittsford), McQuaid Jesuit High School, (Rochester, NY) St. Thomas More (Darien, CT) and St Aloysius (New Canaan, CT).  Her interest in Catholicism and faith deepened with her roles in the Mass as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and lector; additionally, instructing and leading the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA).

Peggy enjoyed bridge, travel, hosting family gatherings, gardening/landscaping (Oh those rocks in the Connecticut soil!), and golfing (especially when she could best her children). 

She delighted in her role as Mimi, grandmother to Ella, Brigit, Corinne, Patrick, and Liam by sharing her interests with them and being a supporter of their education and activities. 

Peggy is survived by her sister, Maureen Welsh SHCJ, her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews all of whom she cared for deeply.

With gratitude, Peggy acknowledged the blessings of faithful friends, family, and experiences that enriched her life over the decades. She was at peace and left a legacy of faith, hope, and love.    We will miss her.

A Memorial Mass will be at St. Aloysius Church in New Canaan, CT at a time 10am Friday, July 19, 2024. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Society of the Holy Child, 1341 Montgomery Ave, Rosemont, PA 19010 or Thomas More Center, 27781 Leef Rd, Webster, WI 54893.