Richard James "Barney" Byrne

Richard James Byrne, known to many as "Barney," passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 9, 1955, in Winchester, Massachusetts.

A long-time resident of Needham, Richard had a deep love for music, Westerns, and dogs. His life was filled with adventure, especially during his cherished summers in Wellfleet on Cape Cod. There, alongside his loving grandparents, Doris and James Casey, he became a skilled fisherman and the instigator of countless escapades—from crossing Uncle Tim’s Bridge to Cannon Hill to exploring Mayo Beach and the backshore.

Richard spent much of his career in facilities maintenance. He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard S. Byrne and Doris I. Alexander. He is survived by his stepfather, Harvey L. Alexander Jr., his brother Robert Byrne and his wife, Kathleen, and his sister Kristin Kantner and her husband, Joseph. He will be deeply missed by his nephews, James, Matthew, and Andrew Kantner, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Private services will be held for the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the MSPCA at https://www.mspca.org/.