Robert Byrnes

Robert Finley Byrnes, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather passed away unexpectedly at his home on September 16, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on September 29, 1931, to Frank and Edith Byrnes in Brooklyn, NY, Rob grew up in a loving family with his brother Ken and his sister Ann. He carried those values and traditions with him throughout his life; steadfast support and love was the generous gift he always gave to those closest to him. Rob was an extremely proud graduate of Regis High School in Manhattan, and also graduated from St. John’s University, where he met Helen, the love of his life and wife of 70+ years. He served honorably as an officer in the U.S. Navy, helping to secure what he always kiddingly called the Italian theater of the Korean conflict. After a successful stint on Wall Street, Rob stepped away from that fast-paced career path to spend more time with his family, and transitioned to the classroom. He earned a Masters degree in Economics from SUNY Stony Brook, and taught business classes at Suffolk County Community College for almost 4 decades. Throughout his career, Rob was known for his commitment to his students. Beyond the classroom, Rob loved his family, a good breakfast, the New York Mets, and Democrat/Progressive causes along with his favorite communities at the Weston Priory in Vermont and at the Wartburg. Rob had a zest for life, and when asked how he was, he most often responded, “splendid.” He lived every single day to the fullest, even bowling the day before his death. 

 Robert Finley Byrnes was predeceased by his son Robert and daughter Sheila. He is survived by his beloved wife Helen Lynch Byrnes, his children Maureen, Timothy (Molly), Christopher (Margaret), Michaela, and Brendan (Stephen), and by his “wonderful” grandchildren, Gavin, Kate, Brigid, Ryan (Kylie), Meghan, Olivia, and Erin. 

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 5th at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel on the Wartburg campus located at 1 Wartburg Place, Mount Vernon, NY. 

Please join the Byrnes family for light refreshments immediately following the service. 

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jesuit Campus Fe y Alegria! in El Cercado, Dominican Republic. Helen and Rob have visited and supported their good friend Fr. John Cervini's work there for years. Checks should be made out to The Parish of St. Paul the Apostle, and then in the Notes section of the check please put Jesuit Campus Fe y Alegria! in El Cercado, DR. Checks can be mailed to: The Parish of St. Paul the Apostle c/o Deacon Ray D'Alessio 2534 Cedar Swamp Rd. Brookville, NY 11545.