Jerry Dean Bayless, 85, passed away Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, at Ben Hur Nursing Home in Crawfordsville.
He was born June 21, 1939, in Montgomery County, to Otis and Hazel (Trimble) Bayless. Jerry married Joy Anne Quisenberry on Sept. 7, 1958, at Yountsville, spending over 61 loving years together, until her passing in 2020.
Jerry graduated from Alamo High School, Class of 1957 and was part of the 1957 County Basketball winning team. He worked at RR Donnelley’s as a stamp operator for 38 years, retiring in 1995. Jerry attended services at Whitesville Christian Church.
Jerry owned sprint cars, his first car being driven by his cousin, Max Melvin, and later worked with driver Bob Kinser for 12 years, racing across the Midwest. Jerry also enjoyed drag racing in the 1960-70s, racing his ‘55 Chevy and ‘68 Camero.
He proudly ran the New York City Marathon three times and the Boston Marathon once. Jerry was an avid gardener and always kept an impeccable yard. He was a diehard sports fan, especially of the NY Yankees and Purdue, but most of all loved watching his grandkids play their various sports. Jerry was well known for being ready for an argument, debate or heated discussion on most topics.
Jerry is survived by three children, Greg Bayless, Brenda (Robert Warnick) Bayless and Brian (Samantha) Bayless; five grandchildren, Kris Posthauer, Greg (Natalie) Posthauer, Jesika (Marcus) Manges, Zackary (Lindsay) Bayless and Alek Bayless; 13 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was preceded in death by wife Joy; parents; twin brother, Larry Bayless; and younger brother, Jim Bayless.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jerry’s memory to the Whitesville Christian Church, 3603 S. Ladoga Road, Crawfordsville, IN 47933 or the Alamo Alumni Association, c/o Elaine Weir, 521 E. Wabash Ave., Crawfordsville, IN 47933. Jerry’s family would like to thank the staff of Ben Hur for their care the past few weeks.
Cremation was chosen. Sanders Funeral Care Crawfordsville is assisting the family. There will be no services at this time per Jerry’s wishes.
Share memories and condolences at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.
