Obituary for
Norma Jean Byrn (Sintz)
Norma Jean Byrn, 90, passed away on July 14, 2017. Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m., with funeral service at 10:00 a.m. both Thursday, July 20, at South Crysler Congregation Community of Christ, 3100 S. Crysler Avenue, Independence, MO 64052. She will be laid to rest in Mound Grove Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Outreach International or Kirtland Temple Historical Site in her memory.
Norma was born on December 4, 1926, in Middletown, Ohio, to John Sintz and Edith Rudicil Sintz. She grew up in Middletown, and graduated from Graceland College, Lamoni, Iowa, with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. On August 15, 1948, she married WWII Army veteran O. Kenneth Byrn. She was a teacher and principal for New York Elementary in Lawrence, KS, and Linwood Elementary in Linwood, KS.
In 1951, Kenny was called to the Community of Christ ministry. He and Norma spent the rest of their lives actively involved in their church. She held the priesthood office of Elder, and served as bookkeeper, member of Pastorate, Prayer for Peace leader, and Kirtland Temple guide. She was also past PTA president and a Skylark & Cub Scout leader.
In their retirement years, Norma and Kenny enjoyed trips across the country in their RV, and vacations to Europe and Hawaii.
Norma was a constant caretaker of her family, and Kenny’s work in the ministry was made possible in large part by Norma’s support.
Norma is survived by her children: Steve Byrn, David and Pam Byrn and Carol Caplinger; grandchildren: Colby Byrn, Kelsey Cole (Andy), Kari Twombly (Nathan), Chad Holstrom (Chelsey), Sharon Ahuna (Nate), and Tara Butler (Jamie); great-grandchildren: Addi, Jilli, Owen, Meredith, Jayden, Tristan, Reese, Ava, Jax, and Abi; brother, Ed Sintz; and many extended family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Bishop O. Kenneth Byrn; daughter, Kathy Holstrom; and sisters, Thelma Sintz and Marjorie Cochran.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com.
