Paul M. Byrne, age 77, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025 in Chicago, IL. He was a native Chicagoan, born on July 22, 1948 to the late James and Anne (Ferrigan) Byrne, and raised in Logan Square. Paul attended St. Sylvester Elementary School, Quigley North High School, Niles College Seminary, Loyola University, and went on to complete a Masters in Education at Northeastern Illinois University, a law degree from the University of Illinois, and a Masters of Education in Community Counseling at Loyola later in life.
In his early twenties, Paul became a conscientious objector and completed several years of public service at Evanston Hospital. His career includes time as a CTA bus driver, an attorney for the City of Chicago’s Corporation Counsel where met his future wife, Liz, and ultimately, as a special education teacher at Carl Schurz High School, teaching English and history for over two decades.
Paul played the guitar, read voraciously, and strove to make a difference for others throughout his life, motivated in part by his strong Catholic faith. Sharing knowledge was more than a profession for him. Whether it was a conversation about current events, the history of American folk, or his favorite artists, Paul’s curiosity about the world was how he connected to the people he knew and loved. He will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, countless historical facts, and dedication to his family and friends, especially as an immensely devoted father.
Paul is survived by his cherished daughter, Joanna; brothers, Andy (Sharon) and Tom (Corliss); sister-in-law, Kristi Highum of San Francisco, CA; as well as numerous friends, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lizabeth Wickham; brother, Jim (Brenda); sister, Loretta (Jack Campbell); and brother-in-law, Patrick Wickham.
Visitation will be held Monday, September 22 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Gibbons Family Funeral Home, 5917 W. Irving Park Rd., followed by a procession to St. Pascal Church, 3935 N. Melvina Ave., and Mass at 11:30 AM. Interment will be on Tuesday, September 23 at 11:00 AM, St. Michael Cemetery, 1109 Warrenville Rd., Wheaton. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to WBEZ Chicago (Chicago Public Media) or a charity of your choice.
I’m so sorry to learn about Paul’s passing. I was a colleague of his at Carl Schurz High School. He and I enjoyed countless lunchtime conversations at Schurz. Paul was extremely nice and was an absolute pleasure to work with. My thoughts go out to Paul’s daughter and family during this difficult time.
Scott D. Baran, M. Ed
Carl Schurz High School (Retired)
I taught with Paul for many years. I remember his wedding and the birth of his daughter. I am glad that I had the chance to share a small part of his life. My condolences and prayers are with his daughter, family and friends Cathy Forde Retired SPED teacher, Schurz High School
Paul was a treasured friend of 50 years. We are lucky to have so many happy memories with him and with wife Liz and daughter Joanna. We admired many things about him but especially his dedication as a dad.
Joanna, I am so sorry on the passing of you loving father, I will always remember his kindness he was a lovely person.
I was so lucky to have met him. I always made sure that his needs where met when staying in our community. He will be missed.
my deepest condolences to you and the family.
Myriam Echeverria