Esther G Byrne

The faith of Esther G. Byrne became sight on Wednesday as she was ushered to her heavenly home by the Great Shepherd of the sheep, the LORD Jesus Christ. Esther G. Byrne, 95, of Altoona, formerly of Sinking Valley, was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Joseph and Adelaide (Sciarrillo) Fasano. She married Charlie H. Byrne in Winchester, VA, and was his faithful wife of 61 years. He preceded her in death on September 29, 2002. Esther was a devoted wife, a sacrificial mother and a loving grandmother. She enjoyed cooking, baking and collecting recipes. As a result, her family and friends were the recipients of many delicious meals and goodies. She also was an avid reader, and a collector of miniature houses. She was a graduate of Tyrone High School. Esther was the last surviving member of her immediate family having been preceded in death by five brothers; William, Norman, Eugene, Alphonso and Theodore. Esther was baptized March 22, 1959 by Pastor Ralph H. Stoll, and became a member of Calvary Baptist Church, March 29, 1959. She taught Sunday school and vacation Bible School in the junior department for many years. She also taught a ladies Sunday school class. She was active in the Altoona Christian Women's Club serving as book chairperson many years, and a Friendship coffee Bible study guide. Esther leaves a rich legacy of her deep love and hope in her faith in Jesus Christ. Surviving are two daughters, Carole Rubino with whom she resided, Brenda, wife of Frank Madigan of Valley Center, CA, and a granddaughter, Erin of California. Friends will be received from 2-3pm Sunday, May 23, 2010, at Calvary Baptist Church, 810 Ruskin Drive followed by a funeral service at 3pm, with Pastor Larry Weaver, officiating. Interment at Alto Reste Park. In lieu of flowers contributions in Esther's memory may be made to the Calvary Baptist Church senior ministry which brought her much joy, or the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association c/o Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201-0001 Arrangements by Mauk & Yates Funeral Home, Inc.