Gabrielle F. Hozier passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Feb. 6.
Gabrielle was born on Jan. 7, 1936, in Dublin, Ireland. She emigrated to the U.S. in 1957 and shortly after, married Vincent Byrne in Chicago, Ill., whom she met in Dublin. She was the only one in her family to emigrate.
Although she lived in the U.S. for the rest of her life, she maintained a deep connection with her many family members and friends in Ireland and her Irish heritage. Her U.S. friends and fellow emigrants also made her transition to the States easier and provided long-lasting relationships.
Gabrielle lived in Chicago, Florida, and Rye, before settling very close to her daughter Fiona in Westfield, N.J.
Gabrielle completed secretarial school in Ireland, and at various points in her life, she worked as a receptionist.
As a hobby, she wrote poetry and often developed poems for special occasions. When people mention Gabrielle, they almost always include the word stylish. She loved a good hat and had an extensive collection. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and there was nothing she enjoyed more than spending time with her family. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved.
Survived by her children Nuala Byrne, Fiona Byrne-Oberman, and Brendan Byrne; her son-in-law, Brett Oberman and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Purdy; her grandchildren Eric Oberman, Rowan Oberman, Tova Byrne, Declan Byrne, Maeve Jebb, and Siobhan Jebb; her sister, Anne Hozier, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother, Patricia Hozier (nee Salmon), her father Frank Hozier, and sisters, Patricia Kenny and Mary Finlay.
She was blessed with many amazing in-laws and with having Jacqueline Lockburner in her life.
In her last years, she lived at the McAuley Hall Health Care Center in Watchung, N.J., where she was treated with incredible kindness and exceptional care by the entire staff and the Sisters of Mercy.
Gabrielle will be brought home to Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, Ireland, to be reunited with her mother, father, and sisters.
Donations may be made to the McAuley Hall Health Center at 1633 Highway 22, Watchung, N.J. 07069
