Lila Byrnes

 Lila I. Byrnes, age 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 13, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Platteville, with burial at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 12, from 4:00–7:00 PM at Melby Funeral Home, where a rosary will be prayed at 3:45 PM and a remembrance service at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue Saturday from 9:30–10:30 AM at the church. Memorials may be made to the Lila Byrnes Memorial Fund. Online condolences may be shared at www.melbyfh.com.

Lila was born on March 24, 1932, in Grant County, Wisconsin, to Martin and Orphia (Watchorn) Molzof. She graduated from Rewey High School, in the Class of 1951. On January 3, 1952, Lila married Richard J. Byrnes at St. Mary's Catholic Church and together they shared a loving life until Richard's passing in 2015.

Lila is survived by her five children, Dennis (Debra) Byrnes, Cheryl (Terry) Cushman, Kim (Terrell Zander) Olson, Lisa B. (Larry) Van Natta, and Heidi (Daric) Heim; eleven grandchildren and their families, Heather (Scott) Isley and their daughter, Chloe, Brendan Byrnes, Catherine (Adam Haire) Byrnes, Cole Cushman, Carly (Kyle) Craig and their family, Nolan, Isabel, and Kiera, Carter (Hilary Hawes) Cushman and their family, Willy and Reggie, Emily (Kyle) Hager and their family, Lila and Leo, Matthew (Erin) Olson and their family, Trent and Dylan;  and Hillary, Kylie, and Trevor Heim.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; their infant son, Andrew; her parents; her brothers, Earl, Francis, and Archie Molzof; and her father and mother-in-law, Arthur and Dora Byrnes.  She is also survived by her brother, Randy Molzof; her sister-in-law, Helen Molzof; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Lila was actively involved with the Council of Catholic Women (CCW). She was known for her passion for sewing, knitting, baking, and cooking, always finding joy in creating for others. She also enjoyed taking walks around Smith Park, visiting garage sales, and antiquing—always on the lookout for the best bargain.

Above all, Lila's greatest love was her family. She was a constant presence at her children's,  grandchildren's, and great-grandchildren's activities, never missing an opportunity to cheer them on. Lila was also especially known for her cherished holiday card tradition. Each holiday, every card she sent included a stick of gum and a crisp two-dollar bill—always tucked in with a few of her signature X's and O's from “Nanny.” This simple gesture became a beloved symbol of her thoughtfulness, warmth, and steady love.

Lila had a wonderful experience at Park Place, nestled beside Smith Park reflecting the warm, family-like environment she valued so deeply. She cherished the friendships she made there, the many road trips, bingo, morning coffee, and Friday happy hours! She proudly contributed her handmade hats to the Grant County Hat Project, providing warmth and comfort to those in need.

Lila's life was a beautiful example of faith, family, and kindness. Her quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Lila. In addition, the family is deeply grateful to the staff at Southwest Health Center and the many medical professionals who cared for her with dignity, kindness, and respect—especially Dr. Zach Droeszler, and Dr. Eugene Kaji.

The family extends their gratitude for the exceptional care provided on November 28 by UW Med Flight, UW Emergency Staff, the Neuro ICU Team, and the Palliative Care Team. Your dedication and compassion brought comfort and peace during her final moments, and the family will remain forever grateful.

We love her more than she would ever know.  XOXOXO Gratitude to our Mom & Nanny.