Frank “Zugi” Byrne

 

Franklin Byrne, who for decades tended bar at the best watering holes in Rye, New York, died on October 20, 2020.

 

Born on January 16, 1954, in Peter Cooper Village in New York City, he was the son of Charlotte and Peter Byrne. He lived in Rye for most of his life. He attended Midland Elementary School and was a member of the Rye High School class of 1972. He earned a B.A. in Finance from Pace University in 1992.

 

Frank Byrne spent his life making people smile, dispensing unlimited love and laughter wherever he went. He was known as Zugi, a nickname that stuck from childhood, when he worked at Larry’s Market. He was someone you could count on for anything.

 

He began his bartending career at the Mug and Ale, working with Finn, but it was at The Pub, a few blocks away in downtown Rye, that he became legendary. For the last 34 years, he worked for the McGuire family, behind the bar at Kelly’s Sea Level.

 

It was at The Pub that Frank met his future wife Linda. Their marriage spanned 33 years. His son, Jimmy, and daughter, Grace, were his absolute world. Nothing made him happier than his family and sharing good times with those he cared about.

 

Equally important to him were the many treasured friends he valued as family. He was someone who spent days curating “material” to keep everyone in high spirits. He made sure everyone around him had a good time.

 

In addition to his wife and children, Mr. Byrne is survived by his two brothers, Peter and Wes, and his sister, Charlotte. He also leaves behind his beloved mother-in-law, Ann Coughlin, and several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.

 

A private funeral service was held at Christ’s Church on October 30. Mr. Byrne was buried at Greenwood Union Cemetery. A celebration of his wonderful life will be held at a future date.