John Byrne

John William Byrne, age 59, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 11, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. He bravely fought a battle with cancer, but ultimately succumbed to its effects. John was born on June 6, 1964, in Manchester, New Hampshire, to John Patrick and Ruth Catherine (Lydon) Byrne. He attended Manchester Central High School and graduated in 1982. Shortly after graduating high school, John enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, following in the footsteps of his father who was a USAF veteran of the Korean War. He dedicated 20 years of his life to serving his country with honor and distinction. During his service, he completed a tour of duty in the Gulf War, demonstrating his courage and commitment to defending freedom and democracy. He also earned his B.A. from New Hampshire College and his M.B.A. from the Southern New Hampshire University while serving. Throughout his military career in supply logistics, John received numerous accolades and awards and was admired by his fellow service members for his leadership, integrity, and unwavering dedication to duty. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued his career at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for several years before returning to the USAF in aircraft contracting. John was a lifelong, avid New England Patriots fan. He was also an active member of the Tinker AFB Catholic Church and enjoyed a variety of hobbies including cycling and reading. John will be deeply missed by his loving family, including his wife, Cecilia Mary (Riehl) Byrne of Oklahoma City; daughter, Jamie Byrne of Oklahoma City; stepsons, Austin (Catherine) Kipp of Philadelphia, PA, and Joshua (Lacey) Richards of Lewiston, CA; stepdaughter, Brittany Kipp of Freeport, ME; stepgranddaughter, Maddisyn Hazard of Wichita, KS; mother, Ruth Byrne of Manchester; and sisters, Lisa Bodell of Concord, NH; Colleen Byrne-Lang, Kathleen Blanchette, and Moira Philbrook, all of Manchester. He will also be remembered fondly by his many friends and colleagues. John was preceded in death by his father, John Byrne of Manchester; his stepdaughter, Christine (Michael) Hazard of Wichita, KS; and his niece, Margaret Philbrook, of Manchester. Services: public visitation hours are from 8am to 8pm on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Barnes Friederich Funeral Home in Midwest City, OK. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10am on Monday, February 19, 2024, at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Midwest City, OK. Though he may be gone from our sight, John's legacy of bravery, sacrifice, and love will forever live on in our hearts.