Patricia Byrnes

On Tuesday, 13 March, Patricia Byrnes (née Waldie) passed away peacefully in her sleep surrounded by loved ones. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty years, Roger Byrnes, in 2010.  She is survived by her brother, George Ronald Waldie; her six children, Judith Byrnes, Timothy Byrnes, Jeanne Byrnes, Joy Stotts and her husband Larry, Michael Byrnes and his wife Krissi, and Sean Byrnes; along with her six grandchildren Trevor Thomas, Forest Thomas, Jarret Stotts, Callan Stotts, Chelsey Minkler, and Courtney Robbins; and her longtime friend and caregiver, Desiree Mayes.

She led a remarkable life over her 80 years, all spent in Albuquerque.  She was the first in her family to obtain a college degree, graduating from UNM with a degree in math.  An avid gardener, she was a founding member of the Albuquerque Garden Club.  She was an intelligent, witty, and impressively stubborn woman who successfully raised six kids, none of whom became a banker, a thief, or a lawyer.  She was very proud of all of us.

Over the last 20 years, she battled multiple sclerosis with an amazing amount of dignity and grace.  As she lost more of her mobility, she became more grateful for what she still had in life, namely a comfortable home, a loving family, and countless friends who kept her happy and cheerful.

Of the many lessons she taught us, it is this sense of gratitude that is the most powerful. Please do not wait until old age or a terrible illness to learn to recognize how important all of our blessings are. We are thankful for all of the support our mother had from her friends and family. But right now we are most thankful for the simple fact that we were Patricia Byrnes’ children.

Services are planned for the week of 30 April, please check with the family for updates.

Daniels Family Funeral Services

7601 Wyoming Blvd. NE

Albuquerque, NM 87109

505-821-0010