Sept. 14, 1932 – Sept. 19, 2019

NATCHEZ– It is with great sadness that the family announces the death of Paul Henry Byrne Jr., 87, of Natchez, who died Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019.    
In remembrance of Mr. Byrne’s life, family and friends are invited to Beau Pre’ Country Club on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019, from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. for a celebration of life.
Mr. Byrne, known by many as “Hammer,” was born Sept. 14, 1932, the son of Paul H. Byrne Sr. and Page Pintard Byrne Calhoun.
He graduated from Jefferson Military School in Natchez at the age of 16. He attended Louisiana State University before enlisting in the U.S Army in 1952. He was stationed in Targo, Korea (and was crowned ping pong champion.)
After the service, he earned a bachelor of science degree in geology from the University of Southern Mississippi. At Southern, he met Al Stall, who became his “long time” friend and business associate.
They were successful in many ventures in the oil business and in thoroughbred racing. They made several large oil discoveries and owned numerous top thoroughbreds.
Golf was one of his passions; he enjoyed many successful golfing years with his friends at Belwood Country Club and Beau Pre’ Country Club.
He also spent many years running with a local running group, The Bluff City Striders. He had the opportunity to complete a marathon. In addition, he loved snow skiing and was a ferocious New Orleans Saints fan, holding season ticket from the inaugural 1967 season, “Hard to Do”.
Mr. Byrne worked as a geologist in Natchez and was co-owner of Paradise-Byrne Foods.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Scott.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Janice Priester Byrne; one son, Priester Byrne; one daughter, Susannah Byrne Heatherly and husband, Wade; and four grandchildren, Wesley, Carolyne and Byrne Heatherly and Liza Byrne.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.