Marv Byrley

Marv Byrley, a cherished family man whose legacy is marked by his selflessness, love, and generosity, passed away unexpectedly at his home in St Marys, OH, on November 20, 2023. Born on May 1, 1951, in Celina, OH, Marv's early years took root in Celina, where he grew up embraced by the close-knit community. Eventually, he moved to Crawford County, IL, drawn to be nearer to his mother's family. There, Marv began a career marked by commitment and hard work. His professional life saw him contribute significantly to various companies; he spent several years at Hershey, EH Baare, and Tempco, before culminating his career at the Toyota plant in Princeton, IN, where he retired on his birthday in 2018.

After three fruitful decades in Illinois, Marv returned to Ohio to reconnect with his father's side of the family. There, he continued to foster the warmth and bonds that were the hallmark of his existence. After all, Marv always placed family at the forefront of his life. His many photo albums, brimming with captured memories of relatives past and present, are a testament to the importance he placed on family history and the bonds that tie us. Generosity coursed through Marv's veins—if he had but a dollar, rest assured, it would be yours if you needed it.

Beyond his familial commitments, Marv was an avid outdoorsman. When he had the opportunity, he enjoyed camping, fostering a love for nature's tranquility. His passion for collecting symbols of freedom and the wild—the eagle and the buffalo—reflected this long-haired country boy's spirit. This was further reflected in his love of motorcycles. For years, Marv found a serene escape on two wheels. Though a pause came with fatherhood, he joyfully returned to riding after retirement, embracing the freedom of the open road.

A social creature, Marv spent years as a dedicated member of the Eagles Lodge #3329 in Palestine, which he transferred to the Eagles Lodge Aerie #767 in St. Marys upon returning to Ohio. His lifetime membership with the Eagles was a mirror to his devotion to community and camaraderie.

Selfless, loving, and generous, these qualities barely begin to encompass the man that Marv Byrley was and the memory of him that lives on. The selfless love he so readily poured out continues to saturate the memories of everyone he touched. Marv Byrley will be deeply missed, but the richness of his life will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know him.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Marv's life on Saturday, December 2nd, from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Crawford County Christian Center (211 E Main St, Robinson, IL 62454). His cremated remains will be privately interred at Robinson New Cemetery.