Janet Marie Byrne, 82, of Wellesley, Massachusetts, passed away on January 5, 2026. A woman of remarkable strength, intellect, and creativity, Janet will be missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born on July 31, 1943, in Boston, Massachusetts, Janet lived a life marked by determination, imagination, and resilience. An accomplished entrepreneur, she led a group of real estate brokers working at Country Squire Properties. She later founded and operated J.M. Byrne Computer Graphics, where her artistic talent, creativity, and keen eye for detail were evident in every drawing project she undertook.

Janet's creativity extended well beyond her professional endeavors. She took great joy in crafting, knitting, crocheting, and building and decorating dollhouses - each creation reflecting her imagination, patience, and meticulous attention to detail. She also embraced technology with enthusiasm and curiosity and, even in her final days, was affectionately designated the IT Manager of her household. In her later years, Janet became an active and dedicated volunteer with the Wellesley Council on Aging, eagerly embracing opportunities to remain engaged in her community. Most recently, she found special fulfillment as a member of a group called the "Community Service Bears." Janet knitted sweaters for teddy bears, which were then donated to children in need. She was undoubtedly inspired by her love of teddy bears; and she also sought to stay involved, to remain engaged, and to give back.

As a young child, Janet was raised at the Home for Catholic Children, which was then located on Harrison Avenue in Boston. She often spoke fondly of the nuns who cared for her and the close bonds formed with the other children there. Later in her youth, Janet lived with relatives and attended Roslindale High School. She remained connected with her classmates throughout her life and played a leading role in running class reunions.

Driven by a deep curiosity about her roots, Janet became passionately involved in researching her family's history and ancestry - a quest that ultimately took her to Ireland, where she visited communities in which her forebears had once lived, and so she strengthened her connection to her heritage.

Above all, Janet was a devoted and loving mother, deeply committed to her children and family. Janet is survived by her loving husband, William P. Stimson; her daughters Lori (Maffucci) Ingemi and husband Peter Ingemi, and Karen (Maffucci) DiPietro and husband Richard DiPietro; and her son, David Maffucci. Janet also leaves three grandchildren, Peter, Nick, and Joey Ingemi; and two great-grandchildren, Mia and Avery. Janet was predeceased by her brother, Thomas Byrne. Her legacy of creativity, perseverance, and dedication will live on through her family and all those whose lives she touched.

A wake will be held on Tuesday, January 13, from 9:30–10:30 a.m. at Henry J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 56 Washington Street, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, 9 Glen Road, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, One Wellesley Avenue, Needham Heights, MA 02494.
Refreshments will be served in Powers Hall on the lower level of St. John the Evangelist Church following the burial.