June 11, 1926 – Dec. 17, 2016

NATCHEZ — Services for Edward J. Byrne Jr., 90, of Natchez, who died Saturday, Dec. 17, 2016, at his residence, will be 11 a.m. today at St. Mary Basilica with the Rev. David O’Connor officiating.
Burial will follow at the Natchez City Cemetery under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time today at the church.
Mr. Byrne was born June 11, 1926, in Natchez, the son of Edward J. Byrne Sr. and Marie Berard Byrne.
He served in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Theater on Troop Transport U.S.S. Duchess. Mr. Byrne was a member of the American Legion and served as past Commander and was a member of the 40&8. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, a supporter of the National Humane Association and the American Indian Youth. Mr. Byrne was a disabled American veteran.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, H.F. Byrne; and one cousin, Neet Marks.
Survivors include his wife, Nan Wiggins Byrne of Sidon; one daughter, Celeste Wiggins Byrne Jones of Natchez; one grandson, Jesse Byrne Jones of Biloxi; two cousins, Tony Byrne and Sybil Byrne Strozier of Natchez;  and two nieces, Tara Byrne Leachman of Natchez and Felice Byrne Fortenberry.
Memorials may be made to the National Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org or the Natchez Adams County Humane Society.
Online condolence may be sent to lairdfh.com.