Geraldine Byrne

Geraldine A. "Jeri" Byrne, wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away at Upland Hills Health in Dodgeville, WI, on Monday, January 27, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born on June 1, 1935, in Shullsburg, Wi, the daughter of Merlin and Genevieve (Aurit) Cherry. Jeri grew up in Shullsburg and graduated from Shullsburg High School. After graduating, she married her high school sweetheart, Joseph Byrne on September 3, 1955. Jeri is survived by her husband of 69 years; Joseph Byrne of Shullsburg; her six children: Jacqueline (Bruce) Curry Folley of Darlington, WI, Jill (Kyle) Truitt of Eads, TN, Lisa Stewart of Waterloo, IL, Jeffrey Byrne(Teresa) of Bella Vista, AK, Joni (Michael) Wedig of Darlington, and Judi Byrne of Shullsburg; her grandchildren: Phillip (Katie), Joseph (Brianna), Meggie (Hank), Jack, Bradley (Kim), Jake (Mikaela), Betsy (Dave), Nick (Jordan), Abby (Jeff), Olivia (Aaron), Alison (Royce), Isabel, and Mariah; eleven great-grandchildren: Charlie, Henry, Amelia, Ingrid, Aria, Mollie, Ford, Harper, Presley, Lenny, Stella, Harper, Isaiah, and Lucy, with three more on the way; and two sisters: Joan Derderian and Debra (Bill) Lethlean. Jeri was preceded in death by her parents; an infant daughter: Jennifer; her sisters: Ruth Cherry and Bernadine Townsend and her son-in-law: Roger Curry. Jeri exemplified the virtues of hard work, dedication, and commitment throughout her lifetime. Her marriage was a testament to the enduring power of love which was demonstrated over the last six years as she cared for Joe at their home. She and Joe shared a bond that spanned over eight decades, a rare and beautiful partnership that was a source of admiration and inspiration for her whole family. Jeri cherished the memories she created with her family, especially her grandchildren, and always made sure they knew how proud she was of them. Jeri relished the simple pleasures of life. Her love for a good martini was matched only by the delight she took in gathering with friends for lunch or enjoying dinner surrounded by her family. Her strong moxie was legendary; Jeri had a unique ability to express her thoughts candidly, yet with a grace that left no doubt of her good intentions. She found solace and joy in daily prayer and the quiet moments of reflection. Jeri and Joe spent many evenings on their deck enjoying each other's company. This cherished routine was a source of relaxation and contentment, a daily reminder of the beauty to be found in life's tranquil moments. Per Jeri's request a private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Matthew's Catholic Church in Shullsburg. The Erickson Funeral Home in Shullsburg is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.