Anne Irwin Byrne died peacefully on January 18 at the place she loved most in the world, Elbow Bend, surrounded by her family.  Anne grew up in Birmingham. Alabama and was raised by her parents, Orrie Walker Irwin and Pearl Clements Irwin.

As an adult, Anne moved to Columbus, Georgia with Ralph Pyburn where she raised five children, Sherry Pyburn Green (Bill), Lyn Sterling Montagne (Larry), Lisa Pyburn, Leslie Pyburn Robertson (Joe), and Rip Pyburn. She had a fierce love for her children and raised them with immeasurable support and wisdom.

In 1977, Anne married Philip Byrne and together they created a haven on Mulberry Creek. Elbow Bend, as the homestead came to be known, brought family and friends together to enjoy great company, wonderful food, story telling, and the cool respite of the creek on hot summer days. Because of their love for each other, the family, and the beautiful natural surroundings, children and grandchildren grew up going there and came to treasure this very special place.

Anne was an example to her family and all who knew her for her compassion, strong work ethic, volunteer spirit, and selfless devotion to her family and friends.  She was an accomplished artist, gardener, cook, designer, and soothsayer.

Anne was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Marilyn Irwin Perkins, her brother, Orrie Walker Irwin, and the love of her life, Philip Byrne.

In addition to her children, Anne is survived by seven grandchildren: Gabriel Sterling, Michael Montagne (Zuzana), Daniel Montagne, Anne Green (Christian), Amy Robertson, Lily Pyburn, and Drew Pyburn; one great granddaughter, Audrey Green; her sisters, Joy Irwin Land and Frances Barrett Funari, and a slew nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the home of Bill and Sherry Green on Sunday, January 21st from 2-4. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to a charity of the donor’s choosing.

The Family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 7500 Veterans Parkway, Suite A, Columbus, Georgia 31909, 706-577-0055. Condolences may be offered at www.georgiacremation.com.