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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

James M. Byrnes

Jim Byrnes, 66, of Landenberg PA passed away surrounded by his family, from complications due to a stroke on Monday, March 3, 2025. Born in September of 1958 in Bronx, NY, he was the beloved son of James and Theresa Byrnes and oldest sibling to 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

Jim attended Bronx High School of Science and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Manhattan College and a Masters in Chemical Engineering from The University of Delaware. It was there at UD, Jim met the love of his life and future wife, Cathy. His distinguished career in IT spanned over 40 years with The University of Delaware College of Engineering.

Jim loved math and science, but at his core he was a true family man, always prioritizing the needs of his wife and two daughters. He was the first to celebrate their successes and help navigate life’s challenges. Jim took great pleasure in his family and was the most happy when seeing his wife and children smile. Active in his church for many years, Jim also had a heart for ministry serving as a Stephen Minister and participating in several mission trips to Appalachia.

Jim lived with an exuberance for life, always eager to celebrate, raise a glass, hit the dance floor, and bring joy to those around him. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 37 years, Cathy, daughters Jennifer Haley (Ross), Michelle Byrnes (Tina), and granddaughter Bryn Haley.

For those that would like to send flowers to honor Jim, please utilize the following link, http://www.roneastburnsflowershop.com.

Funeral Services

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jim at Red Clay Creek Presbyterian Church, 500 McKennans Church Road Wilmington, DE 19808 on Thursday March 13, 2025, with a visitation from 9:00 to 11:00 am and a church service to follow at 11:00 am.

Condolences

    Nancy Lynn Bickings lit a candle and writes,
    Dear Cathy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a great man and will be deeply missed. I'll always remember shortly after meeting Jim in Mechanical Engineering at UD Jim asked me to take him to a sewing shop on Route 202. He was buying Cathy a table for doing her quilting projects. That seems so long ago. I am fortunate enough to have met Jim through work he was definitely our IT guru!! Sincerely, Nancy
    03/06/2025 01:17 pm
    George Crinnion writes,
    Jimmy and I met at the age of five at a playground in the Bronx, perfectly situated between our homes. From that moment on, we were inseparable—attending the same schools, the same social events, and sharing countless memories. Even as we went off to different colleges—he to Manhattan College and I to John Jay—we remained close friends. During those years, we explored the city's vibrant nightlife, frequenting legendary spots like The Peppermint Lounge, the Mud Club, CBGBs, and the Lone Star Café. We even took a trip to Florida together and stood by each other at our weddings. Some of my fondest memories are of nights spent in his parents’ basement on Gifford Avenue, where Jimmy played his cherished Les Paul guitar while his brother Richie kept the beat on the drums—the Byrnes Band in action. Though time and distance eventually separated us, the memories never faded. Jimmy was a great guy, and I will always carry those moments we shared in my heart. Rest in peace, my friend. Until we meet again.
    03/06/2025 08:02 pm
    Emily Volz lit a candle and writes,
    Jim (aka dad #2) was such an amazing soul. From the moment Jen and I became friends, I would always hear the funniest stories from (or about) him. He loved to email rather than text, loved a good glass of wine (but nothing too expensive, of course!) and most of all, loved his wife Cathy (mom #2), and daughters Jen & Michelle (and me! Honorary daughter #3). Anytime I would visit, Jim would always make me feel comfortable and at home. He would tell stories at the dinner table that always ended with his contagious laugh. He wanted the best for his family and did everything in his power to ensure they got it. My favorite memory is sitting at the airport hotel bar before flying to Mexico for Jen’s bachelorette party. Jim wanted to “party with us”, so he booked us a hotel the night before our flight. He was trying to grow a pony tail (to match Ross) and was in the process of whitening his teeth and dying his hair in order to look his best for Jen’s wedding. He went out of his way to wake up early the next day and drive us to the airport to catch our flight- and after all that, he thanked us for letting him “join the party”. This is a perfect example of how selfless, fun-loving, and full of life Jim was. It’s a memory I will keep forever. While Jim has passed on to a better place, his memory and soul will carry on with every person that was lucky enough to meet him. Rest in peace Jim. I promise to make sure your girls are well taken care of, forever and always. We love you.
    03/06/2025 09:58 pm
    Gloria N Rodriguez writes,
    My heartfelt condolences to Jimmy's family. We knew Jimmy since his elementary school days at P.S. 72, in Throgs Neck, Bronx NY. My son Giovanni & Jimmy were good friends and shared some elementary classes together, and also at J.H.S. 101, before we moved to Long Island. I also was fortunate enough to know Theresa a wonderful and devoted Mom. In our later years we rekindled our friendship on Facebook a few years before she passed. I will lift Jimmy's soul in prayer and also the entire Byrnes family for the strength & courage needed during this very difficult time.
    03/06/2025 10:53 pm
    Richard W Robson lit a candle and writes,
    I am deeply saddened to hear about Jimmy's passing. My heart goes out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. The news hit me hard, and I can only imagine the depth of your grief. I will forever cherish the memories that we made together, from the formative years at JHS101 to the academic challenges and triumphs we shared at Bronx Science. These experiences shaped us, and Jimmy's presence was an integral part of that journey. His spirit and the impact he had on us all will not be forgotten.
    03/07/2025 07:52 am
    Tanya writes,
    Extending my deepest condolences to the entire Byrnes family. I will always remember Jimmy's laughter and smile. ❤️
    03/07/2025 10:29 am
    HomeCall DE work family lit a candle and writes,
    Sending you our deepest condolences and keeping you and your family in our prayers during this difficult time. Much Love, The HomeCall DE Team
    03/07/2025 12:09 pm
    Stanley Sandler writes,
    I was very, very sad to learn of Jim’s death. Jim earned his MS under my direction. I really enjoyed working with him. Though I do not have access to my records, I can not say we published at least one and perhaps two papers together on his thesis. I was disappointed that I could not stay on and earn a Ph. D. with me. I really enjoyed the time we worked together. Stan Sandler
    03/07/2025 12:44 pm
    Tad Bergstresser writes,
    My deepest condolences to Cathy and family. I will always remember Jim for our time together at Delaware. He had such a zest for life. Whether it was dancing to the Stones or brandishing a sword he really knew how to have a good time. Same time, he had a remarkable intellect. He would often pose complex questions and we would debate for hours. I learned a lot from Jim, and I had so much fun when we were together. I will miss him.
    03/07/2025 05:06 pm
    Michael Keefe writes,
    Jim was one of the first people I met when I began teaching at the University of Delaware in 1985. I was involved in the 'computer graphics' room in the basement of Spencer Lab and Jim was already involved in what became "IT" at the University of Delaware - though at that time he was specifically working with Chemical Engineering. Jim was one of the most knowledgeable people when it came to computers, operating systems, and university bureaucracy. However, what was most noticeable was his complete willingness to engage and to solve your problem. He was always available and always able to help. I am glad that I was able to call him a friend.
    03/07/2025 05:22 pm
    Gigi & Wayne McDonnell lit a candle and writes,
    Jimmy, the oldest of our large group of cousins, was always full of life and laughter. We are so sorry for the loss of Jimmy. His time on earth was far too short, and our heart aches for you and everyone who loved him. May you find comfort in the memories you shared and the love that surrounds you. Thinking of the whole Byrnes Family and holding you close in our prayers. All our love, Gigi & Wayne McDonnell
    03/07/2025 05:30 pm
    Thomas Stack lit a candle and writes,
    Jimmy, the eldest of the generation, a leader, a kind gregarious man, brilliant , always admired, a great smile, and a great laugh. You are very fondly remembered and our hearts go out to your family in this difficult time. You join your parents and your aunt, Valerie, my mother in heaven . As a child, I vividly remember, you playing “ Stairway to Heaven “ on your guitar. That is where you most certainly are and may you rest in eternal peace. Dr Thomas, Avril, Siadbh, and Thomasen Stack.
    03/08/2025 01:03 am
    Erik Thostenson lit a candle and writes,
    My condolences to Jim's family. I knew him well from his time at CCM. His laugh was unmistakable. I remember specifically when I was a grad student his wife and daughters decorated his office door. The sign read, "Lordy, lordy, lordy -- look who's 40." How time flies...
    03/09/2025 11:02 am
    Iulia Liusenco writes,
    I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jim. It was truly an honor to work alongside Jim, and I will always remember his kindness, dedication, and positive spirit. Please accept my deepest condolences, my thoughts are with you during this time. Sincerely, Iulia Liusenco
    03/10/2025 01:12 pm
    Beth and John Volz lit a candle and writes,
    We are so grateful to have had Jim in our lives for the past 40 years. It was an honor to be a part of their wedding and also to be with them to celebrate weddings in the next generation. We have seen many milestones together, but this particular milestone has come much too soon. Jim was a caring, fun-loving, intelligent and generous man. From the early days of our marriages, through the roller coaster of raising children, to seeing them start to marry and form families of their own, Jim and Cathy have been with us. The memories of meals, great conversations and laughter we shared together (John: and the time we spent playing with our guitars) will have to sustain us going forward. We respectfully raise a peanut butter kiss cookie to his life! We will miss him, his laughter and exuberance for life tremendously and are deeply saddened at his passing. We will remain forever thankful for our time together with Jim and his family.
    03/10/2025 07:43 pm
    Michael Davidson lit a candle and writes,
    To the Byrnes Family, My deepest sympathy to you and the entire family! During my 38 years in the College of Engineering (Civil Engineering), I had many chats with Jim in the hallway and other IT issues. Any encounter with him was always positive and his inner joy and laughter always brighten my day! Our chats always included a family update, especially his daughters who were his pride and joy. He was an incredible asset to CCM and the College of Engineering during his career. I hope in some way I can pass forward his amazing qualities! Sincerely, M. Davidson
    03/11/2025 08:32 pm

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