Jerry Byron

Jerry M. Byron, 71, of Oswego, IL passed away unexpectedly on January 6, 2026. He was born in Chicago, IL on July 3, 1954, the son of Frank and Eleanor (Lyons) Byron.

Jerry contracted polio at 6 months old, but he never let it limit or define his life. Though he spent most of his years in a wheelchair, his determination, resilience and strength carried him beyond any physical challenges. He was deeply committed to education, graduating high school from Proviso West, earning a bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and later a master's degree from Long Beach State. While at Long Beach he was able to carry out his passion for college football and became a dedicated USC fan. Jerry never missed an opportunity to talk about college football or corvettes.

He worked for DuPage County and later went on to work for the Illinois State Tollway as a CPA and Auditor. He retired from the state in 2015 after several years of dedicated service. Jerry was a longtime member of St. Anne Church in Oswego.

Known for his generosity and kind heart, Jerry always kept treats for children tucked in the side pocket of his wheelchair and always had dog treats in his van, bringing smiles wherever he went. His wheelchair was accessorized with holiday candies to share. He took great pride in supporting his grandchildren through their extracurriculars. Jerry's legacy is one of courage, love and unwavering perseverance. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Marlene; children, Nick Alvarez and Angie (Victor) Diaz; grandchildren, Morgan, Kasayna, and Maddux Alvarez and Bella Diaz; great-grandson, Grayson and siblings, Mary (the late Charlie) Carullo and Mike (Joni) Byron. He is also survived by several in laws and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Madi Diaz and brothers, Dan and Jim Byron.

Family will be receiving guests on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Dieterle Memorial Home, 1120 S. Broadway Ave. Montgomery, IL 60538. Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Anne Catholic Church, 551 Boulder Hill Pass, Oswego, IL. A luncheon will immediately follow at Dieterle Memorial Home, and a burial will take place after luncheon at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL.

Memorial contributions can be made in his honor to the Brenda Holzer Memorial Foundation by visiting https://www.bhmemorialfoundation.org

Or to Easterseals by by visiting https://ci.easterseals.com/