Joseph “Joe” Byrns, 89, of Groveland, California, passed away on Aug. 3, 2022.
Joe was born on Jan. 21, 1933, in Bowling Green, Kentucky. In 1949, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Navy and rose to the rank of lieutenant, becoming an expert in electronics and nuclear power aboard the USS Enterprise, USS Tills, USS Northampton, USS Belknap and the USS Holland. Joe retired in 1970 after a 22-year career.
For 70 years, Joe played the fiddle with many country and bluegrass bands across the country. He also dabbled in the hospitality business when he owned Priest Station Restaurant and Motel (located in Big Oak Flat) from 1982 to 1991. However, Joe’s favorite hobby was helping others who were in need. Joe took every opportunity to help those in his community who were poor, homeless or distressed.
Joe is survived by his wife, Lana; and five children, Eve Barnett, of Soulsbyville, Mary Ellen Hoyt, of Salida, Colorado, Kevin J. Byrns, of Hot Springs, Montana, Deborah Byrns, of Toccoa, Georgia, and Sean Byrns, of San Pablo. Joe has five living siblings, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Services were held at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation or The Parkinson’s Foundation.
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