Mary was many things to many people. She was a daughter, a sister, a friend, a cousin, a niece, a wife, a teacher, an aunt, a mother, a mother-in-law and a grandmother. She strived to live in the balance she discovered between faith and honest uncertainty. She was a courageous seeker, always ready to let go of the comfort of the familiar. She was also a nurturer, always ready to offer the comforting warmth of the familiar to those who were in need. She was a serious intellect, consumed by a fire that burned down simple-minded assumptions. In equal measure, she was a child-like prankster, always ready to throw some cold water on intellectual pretension.
She began this life as Mary Margaret Walsh, the adored daughter with big, curious, blue eyes. Her innocent laugh inspired her father’s poems. Her sharp mind filled her mother’s heart with pride. Soon she began to play her second role: the adoring big sister to Bernadette. Eventually she became a joyful playmate and a cherished friend to countless. One fateful day, as she entered a new school, she impulsively renamed herself ‘Meg’ and began a new life of discovery and contemplation.
As a teenager, Meg became seriously ill and spent a substantial portion of her time in the hospital. While there, she received the sacrament of Last Rites. She was asked what she would do if God allowed her to survive. Her sincere promise was to dedicate her life to God. In keeping with that promise, she entered the convent at Mount Saint Vincent to become a Sister of Charity. She passionately embraced their mission statement: “We strive to reveal God’s love in our lives and in our varied ministries with and for all in need.” She was devout and pious. However, Meg was burdened with a critical mind and an aversion to following rules that she did not fully digest. Hers was a faith that demanded to be hard earned. She was compelled to question and challenge. Eventually, she realized that she could fulfill her promise to dedicate her life to God by seeking and revealing God’s love through family.
In 1969, Meg met and married Ed Byrne. Contrary to popular opinion, she did not marry Ed for his suave fashion sense. Instead, as she often explained, she fell in love with Ed because she knew that he would bring her closer to God. Their marriage stood on a foundation of faith and a mutual respect for their individual journeys towards God. She soon adopted a new name, “Mom.” Together, Ed and Meg welcomed their children Bonni, Peter and Ned into this world. They raised their children to keep open but critical minds, to respect the views of others, and to rise to the challenge of earning their own beliefs. They instilled in them an unshakeable confidence in the power of family. That is how Meg and Ed revealed God’s love to the world.
She found extraordinary joy in her role as a teacher, often sharing stories of her adventures in the classroom. She adored her nieces and nephews and was always anxious to hear about their successes. She was forever grateful for the enduring friendships she found in all the different tributaries of her life. Her heart was overwhelmed with joy when she received her last moniker, “Mimi.” She relished her role as a grandmother and thought the world of her five grandchildren Lauren (Garvey), Aidan (Garvey), Sedha (Byrne), Maryn (Garvey) and Stella (Byrne). They brought her so much joy, even in her final hours in her earthly vessel.
Meg was a deeply complex woman, a bird on a wire who tried, in her way, to be free. Those of us who love her know that she succeeded and that she will continue her mission.
Her children are deeply grateful for the undying support of their families and friends throughout the last few months. Bella, thank you for giving up so much to allow us the honor of holding her hand throughout. Mike, thank you for always stepping up with kindness and grace. Mom, thank you for showing us how to count our blessings.
Meg is predeceased by both of her parents, her younger sister, Bernadette, and her beloved husband, Edmond A. Byrne.
In accordance with her wishes, her death will not be formally mourned. Instead, her life will be celebrated on her birthday, February 25th. Details will follow in the coming weeks. Her family asks that in lieu of flowers and mass cards, you might consider donating to United Hospice of Rockland at 11 Stokum Lane, New City, NY 10956. We are eternally grateful for their compassion and dedication.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MJHigginsNewCity.com for the Byrne family.
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