Wilma Susanne (Falkner) Byrne

Wilma Susanne “Sue” (Falkner) Byrne

March 23, 1955 – September 11, 2025

Wilma Susanne (Falkner) Byrne, lovingly known as “Sue” and most fondly as “Grammy,” passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 70 after a long illness.

Sue was born on March 23, 1955, in Odessa, Texas, the youngest child of William Scott Falkner and Bessie Elizabeth Bearden. She grew up in Odessa and graduated from Odessa High School in 1973. Remarkably, she had already earned her cosmetology certificate before graduation, becoming the youngest licensed cosmetologist in the State of Texas at that time. She went on to receive her instructor certificate, achieving another first as the youngest licensed cosmetology instructor in Texas.

On September 20, 1973, Sue enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where she made history as the first female rocket engineering mechanic instructor for the 394th ICBM Test Maintenance Squadron. She proudly served until her honorable discharge in August 1977, leaving with the rank of Sergeant.

On March 5, 1994, she married the love of her life, Donald William Byrne, in Odessa, Texas. Together they built a beautiful life, working for the Texas Department of Transportation before retiring and traveling the world. Their adventures took them across Japan, England, France, Ireland, Germany, Scotland, Canada, Nova Scotia, and thousands of miles exploring the United States.

Sue had a generous heart and a creative spirit. She volunteered with CASA and spent countless hours in her sewing room, mending, creating, and even starting a sewing class for neighborhood children in New Braunfels. She cherished time with her sister-in-law, Linda Barone, and her best friend, Ella Howell, and she was blessed with the loving friendship of her neighbors, James and Rachel Estrada, and their daughters over the past six years.

Above all, Sue treasured her family. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Donald Byrne, along with a large and loving family:

Sister: Voni Falkner of Arlington, TX

Twin brother: Scott Falkner (April) of Waco, TX

Nieces, nephews, and extended family including Enid Henderson, Preston Henderson, Robert Sanderson, Tyler Falkner, and their children.

Children and stepchildren: Carie Foreman (Johnny) of Odessa, TX; Eric Byrne (Lori) of Channing, TX; Brian Byrne of Minot, ND; and Gary Byrne of Odessa, TX.

Grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Mason Altom, Emmarie, Natalie Foreman, Cassie Foreman, Brett Gyurnek (Jasmine) and Nathan, Erica Byrne, Riley Byrne, Brandon Byrne (Lorna), Silas, Wolfe, Justin Byrne (Tobi) and Avett, Lauren Elliott (Wesley), Evelyn Sanchez (Sean), Hanna Brunette (Cameron) with Scarlett, Emmersyn, Bridget, and Bennett, Gary Byrne Jr., Brayden Byrne, Kaylee Byrne, and many more who brought immense joy to her heart.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, William Scott Falkner and Bessie Elizabeth Bearden, and her sister, Bena Short.

Her faith was central to her life, and her favorite scripture was Hebrews 13:1-2, “Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” reflects her kindness, her hospitality, and her heart for others.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home, 6801 E. Business I-20, Odessa, TX 79762. Funeral services will follow on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Sue’s honor to one of the following organizations dear to her heart: Doctors Without Borders, the MRSA Survivors Network, and Operation Fistula.

Sue’s life was marked by service, creativity, faith, and love. She will be remembered for her laughter, her generosity, and the way she made everyone she met feel like family.

Jesus said to Martha, (John 11:25-26) "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me will live, even though they die; and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"