Mary Byrne

Babylon lost a valued resident July 8th, 2005 when Mary Byrne, 100, passed away after a bout with cancer. She left a legacy of love for her family and friends.

Born into the prestigious Muncey and Conklin families, Mrs. Byrne dedicated her life from the start to education and taking care of others around her. As a young girl, she used to play "schoolhouse" with her friends, and was always the teacher. This would translate into a career of professional teaching that would last more than 50 years, starting in 1923 when she graduated high school and received a degree from the Jamaica Teaching School. She taught K-8, focusing primarily on 1st and 2nd grade students in both the New York City Public School system and Copiague School District.

She also taught at home as the mother of three daughters and a son. "Education was a really big part of her home," said daughter Mary Berdon. "She always encouraged us to do our best."

Mrs. Byrne only took time off from teaching to raise her family. Berdon recalled how she would make up games to help them with homework and lessons. She believed that reading was the most important subject, for it opened up learning in other areas. She would also tutor students at home.

When she first returned to work, she attended Columbia University’s Teacher’s College.

Believing that "whatever goes out the front door