Barbara Jane Byrne
December 9, 1926 ~ September 27, 2012
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Asheville Butterfly Trail
Barbara Jane Byrne, 85, of Asheville, peacefully passed away with her children by her side on Thursday, September 27, 2012, at the John F. Keever Hospice Solace Center.
A native of White Plains, NY, Ms. Byrne was a daughter of the late Frank and Florence Broderick Deppen. Ms. Byrne was also preceded in death by her sister, June Stokes.
Barbara was a graduate of Cornell University. She taught elementary school in Florida, New York, and completed her career in Connecticut. She later moved back to Florida where she established an artists/ teaching ceramic studio. She then lived in San Francisco for seven years before moving to Asheville, where she lived for the past 20 years, retiring from the City of Asheville Water Department.
Barbara was active in many organizations and was passionate with her love of art and ceramics. She also had a special place in her heart for all the underserved, both two legged and four legged. She was an active volunteer for Femcare and for women's rights. She was a founding member and former President of the Asheville Chapter of the National Organization for Women.
She is survived by her daughter, Robin Byrne, of Brooklyn, CT; son, Bill Byrne and wife Shelagh, of Asheville; and grandchildren, Derek & Ryan Joly of Connecticut, and Christopher & Sean Byrne of Asheville.
A memorial service for Barbara will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Norma Pulliam Chapel at Givens Estates with the Rev. Howard Hanger officiating. A private green graveside service will take place at Green Hills Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Asheville Humane Society, 14 Forever Friend Lane, Asheville, NC 28806 or to the National Organization for Women, Asheville Chapter, 40 Brownwood Ave., Asheville, NC 28806.
Bill, Your mother sounds like a remarkable, lovely woman. Blessings on you.
Bill,
I am very sorry for the loss of your Mom. It sounds like she was a very special lady. My thoughts go out to you and your family.
Bill, I met your mom many years ago when I first came to Asheville. She and I attended occasional CAN (Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods) meetings, and my memory is of a very caring, gentle soul. I wish you and your family peace and fond memories during this difficult time.
Dear Bill, Sheilagh, Christopher, Sean and family, Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. We can’t imagine the hardships you’re enduring now and only hope that time will ease the sorrow of your loss. Our love, as always, to all of you,
Bill, Lisi, Michael and Daniel
Bill, Shelagh, Christopher, Sean and family. I think of the stories of your mother you have shared and Shelagh’s good company as she knitted and comforted. Grace and peace to you all.
Thinking of all of you at this sad time.
I didn’t know your Mom but I have heard about her over the years.
May the memories bring you comfort.
Love,
Merry and John
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time.
Bill, Shelagh, Christopher, Sean, and family…our hearts & love are with you today and in the days to come. Love, d & Herb
Amazingly lady!
Your mom certainly had a wide ranging, interesting and thoughtful life. We hope that her legacy gives your family a sense of peace.
Niki & John Posten
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the Byrne family today as you celebrate Barbara’s life. She was a very blessed woman to have a special family that gave her unconditional love and support.
Love to all of you.
Bill, I think the last time I saw your mom was when she was living on that lake in Woodstock, CT many years ago. It sounds like she had a very full life. My condolences, Tim
Bill and Shelagh, We are so worry to hear of your Mother’s passing, Bill. Unfortunately, we didn’t hear the news until after the service. She raised a wonderful son and left a legacy through him!!! Love, Margie and David
Bill and Shelagh,
So sorry to read about your Mom. When I saw you at your BOH I had no idea that your Mom’s health was so serious. I am holding your family in the light.
My father-in-law, Paul Sampson is listed on the same page as your Mom. He passed away this morning and so we share your loss. Doug and Claudia
Bill, Shelagh, Chris and Sean,
Barbara lives on in and with you. In your stories, memories, thoughts and mannerisms she remains a part of our lives. Embrace your grief and be grateful to have been there to help her into the next world.
Barbara was a dear Friend and a sister Activist. She was a proud Mother & Grandmother. She was an animal lover and protector, especially Carol & Katie. Barbara told me once that she wished she had millions of dollars so that she could give it all away. And I believed her. She was a generous soul with a kind & empathic heart. She will be missed in more ways than I can even think of right now.
Heartfelt thoughts & prayers to her family. The memorial for Barbara was the nicest one I have ever seen. The family honored Barbara’s requests for a ‘Natural Burial’ and made sure it was all done according to Barbara’s wishes. I’m sure she is still smiling over the love you put into everything. Sincerely…