Byrne, Matthew R.

Matthew Ryan Byrne, age 41, of Villa Ridge, Missouri, was born on March 10, 1984, and passed away on February 5, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with esophageal cancer.

Matt was truly one of a kind. He loved his family fiercely and without hesitation, and everything he did was rooted in providing, protecting, and showing up for those he loved most. A tireless worker, Matt took immense pride in his work and accomplishments. Starting his own business was one of his proudest achievements, and through dedication, grit, and heart, it quickly began to thrive.

Above all else, Matt was an incredible girl dad. He showed up—every time—whether it was for sporting events, school activities, or the everyday moments that mattered most. He led by example, teaching his daughters the value of hard work, perseverance, love, and compassion. Matt was intentional in prioritizing his marriage to their mother, modeling what a strong partnership looks like through mutual respect, communication, and unwavering support. The love he shared with Jessica was the foundation of their family and a living example of what solid, enduring love should be.

An avid outdoorsman, Matt found joy and peace in nature. He loved fishing, motorcycle riding, camping, boating, and anything that involved sunshine and water. Whether on the open road or near the water, those moments reflected his adventurous spirit and deep appreciation for life.

Matt never met someone he wouldn’t help. His generosity, loyalty, and willingness to lend a hand defined him. He will be remembered for his strength, resilience, work ethic, big heart, and the profound impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Matt was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Hailey Alexis Byrne; his grandparents Shirley (Dominetto) Byrne, James Lee Johnson, and Brenda Johnson Schwarz.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jessica (Whitaker) Byrne; his cherished daughters, Rilynn Alexis Byrne and Raeya Marie Byrne; his father, Paul Byrne; his mother, Tracy Dougherty, and her husband, Danny Dougherty; his beloved grandfather Paul Byrne, Sr.;  his sister, Nicole Byrne, and her fiancé, David Cox, along with their children Cooper, Matthew, and Emily; his brother, Enrique Pantoja; and by countless aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, and friends who loved him dearly.

Matt’s legacy lives on through his children, his family, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, we would appreciate donations to either: Esophageal Cancer Action Network (ECAN) – https://ecan.org/give-to-save-lives-2/; or the Siteman Cancer Center –https://siteman.wustl.edu/give/giving/

Services: Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois Rd. St. Louis, Mo. 63123, Monday, February 9 from 10am to 130pm. Service at 130pm. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery.