GARY BYRNE 2026, Grand Marshal, Eastchester St. Patrick’s Day Parade Arriving from Ireland in the mid 90’s; in pursuit of the American Dream, Gary brought with him a lifelong passion for hospitality shaped by his family’s hotel business and its legendary dancehall, the Baymount and Silver Slipper in Sligo, one of the West of Ireland’s most popular gathering places. After studying Hospitality Management in Dublin and gaining experience in some of the city’s finest hotels, he set his sights on New York City — a move that launched a remarkable 30-year career with Marriott International.

 

Throughout his tenure with Marriott, Gary has held numerous leadership roles and proudly served on the task force that opened the very first Marriott Hotel in Ireland at the iconic Druids Glen Golf Course. His career continued to flourish in New York, where he became known for his commitment to service, team development, and community engagement.

 

For the past seven years, he has served as the General Manager of the SpringHill Suites Marriott Hotel in Tuckahoe, NY, (which is owned by a local businessman and operated by Concord Hospitality Enterprises out of Raleigh North Carolina).

 

Outside of hospitality, Gary has always nurtured a love for radio production. From 2002 to 2006, he hosted the “Radio Erin” Irish music and chat show on 1460AM and 93.5FM, broadcasting out of New Rochelle and connecting listeners to the music, culture, and stories of home. Gary is a huge fan of the Irish Rugby and Soccer teams and enjoys a good walk spoiled, “Golf”

 

Gary is recognized as a resolute community member who never hesitates to give his time to others. Guided by his personal motto, “Not one of us is perfect, but if we look for the best in others, the world will be a better place,” Gary continues to lead with heart, optimism, and an unwavering belief in the good of people.

 

Gary is married to Julie, they live in Eastchester NY and together they are raising two children — Megan, age 10, and Connor, age 8 who attend local public schools.

 

And as a proud Irishman and naturalized US Citizen, he is delighted to raise the Irish Colors as Grand Marshal at the 2026 Eastchester Saint Patrick’s Day Parade.