Janet Byrnes (DeStefano) passed away peacefully at Faulkner Hospital on Christmas morning after a lengthy illness.
Janet is predeceased by both her parents, Joseph and Edna DeStefano, her sisters Carol and Lynn, She is survived by her other sisters Sandra and Joanne along with several nieces and nephews. She was the loved sister-in-law of Dorothy and her husband John McCormack, Peggy Byrnes, John and his wife, Susan Byrnes.
Janet was married for 30 years to the love of her life, Tom. He was her rock throughout her illnesses and never wavered from her side. They both had a zest for life. They enjoyed traveling be it to the ocean along the coast of Maine and stopping to enjoy a lobster roll, traveling out to San Francisco, sightseeing, shows and casinos in Vegas or visiting the beautiful coast of South Carolina, one of their favorites. Janet loved her country western music and was also a big Adele fan. Janet had a God given talent for painting pastels and even won a prize at the Norwood art fair. Janet was also known for painting beautiful birdhouses as well. She was very gifted. She was great in the kitchen and loved to cook. One of her specialties was carrot casserole which became one of her signature dishes at Christmas dinner with the family. In addition to her beloved Tom, her true love was dogs. She was an avid animal lover and advocate for their well being. She loved all dogs. She and Tom rescued many dogs over the years even riding down South to do transports. Also interviewing potential adoptees for some of the dogs they often fostered, one of whom they adopted named Flo. They loved their own yellow labs, Roma, Quincy and Ellie. We are certain they were all waiting with tails wagging at the Rainbow Bridge to greet her.
Janet was also an avid Patriots fan and enjoyed watching with Tom. Janet will be very much missed and fondly remembered by many. The family would like to extend their gratitude to all who took such good care of her throughout her lengthy illness. Thanks go out to staff at Faulkner ICU, Beth Israel of Boston especially her PCP Dr. John Doweiko, her cardiologist Dr. Michael Gavin and his team, and BI of Needham and Westwood Dialysis, and to all the nurses and therapists who were there for her in her time of need. Burial services will be private. If you would like, please consider donating to an animal shelter of your choice in her memory. Thank you also to Casper Funeral Home in South Boston for making the arrangements.