RICHARD JAMES O’BYRNE

COTTEKILL- Richard James O’Byrne, “Jimmy” died on Tuesday, March 23, 2021, at age 70 after boldly negotiating his challenges with COPD which eventually contributed to his passing. Jimmy was born on April 9, 1950 in NYC to Lucille and Harold O’Byrne. At the age of ve he and his family moved to New Paltz where he was enrolled in kindergarten. He was active in several sports and music activities throughout his school career. After completing his education Jimmy enlisted in the Marine Corps as a rieman. During that time he served in Vietnam with the military police in various posts. He was honorably discharged after being presented the National Defense Service award as well as the Combat Action medal and the Good conduct medal. After his discharge, Jimmy returned to the Hudson Valley and pursued several of his diverse interests. He felt connected with the Native American culture and especially in developing his passion for studying birds of prey. He and several of his fellow Marines toured the country and engaged in educational programs in schools and county fairs. He was very active in his support of his fellow vets by participating as the trumpeter at various veteran ceremonies and was made grand Marshall at Several Memorial Day parades. He was a loving father and brother and especially loyal friend to many. His sense of humor, quick and ready laugh and willingness to help all that came in contact with him will be missed. He was predeceased by his parents; an infant son, Patrick; his brothers, Harold (Skip) and Daniel. Jimmy is survived by his former wife, Chickie and son, Adam Kilmer; his sister, Nancy McKenna, (Rob) of Delmar, niece, Tory, nephew, Rob III; sister, Kathleen Keck, California, (Randy) and their children; and nieces, Abi McDonald, (Parker) and Libby. He is also survived by Natalie Lesniak and Kenny Haines, whom he often referred to as his son and daughter. Also numerous devoted friends who cared for him, especially, Lisa Reynolds, and fellow vets, Phil Beechel, Fred Hutton and Gary Stokes of Florida Memorial visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2021, at the George J. Moylan Funeral Home, Inc., 2053 Route 32, Rosendale. American Legion Post 1219 will conduct a Veterans Ritual at 6 PM. His funeral service will be 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Rev. Arlene Dawber will ofciate. Inurnment with Military Honors will be in the Ulster County Veterans Section of the New Paltz Rural Cemetery. His family suggests memorial donations to Post 1219 American Legion, P.O. Box 203, Tillson, N.Y., 12486. To leave a personal condolence for the family please visit www. GJMoylanFuneralHome.com