Byrne was tenacious, courageous as mayor

I met Jane Byrne on several occasions. She was a tough cookie and a remarkable woman, especially for her time. Following our very first meeting I may have been the first to publicly predict to a friend in attendance at our meeting, that "one day, Jane Byrne will be the mayor of Chicago." At the time, Commissioner Byrne, whom Mayor Richard J. Daley referred to as "little Janie," headed up the Department of Sales, Weights and Measures, which was perhaps the smallest department in the city of Chicago, and even a thought that she might conceivably be seen as a "runner up" was far-fetched, at best.

We know that she wasn't always very popular, but even her most virulent detractors had to admit it took an abundance of tenacity and courage - both of which she possessed - to follow in the footsteps of the mayor she served with unquestioned admiration, loyalty and dedication. Rest in peace, Mayor Byrne. You gave Chicago your personal best. P.J. Dalton

Northbrook