Ernest William "Bill" Bayless

Ernest William “Bill” Bayless, 72, of Wilmington, Ohio went to be with the Lord Wednesday evening, December 16, 2020 at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center due to complications from a stroke.  Bill was born November 11, 1948 in Wilmington, Ohio, son of the late Ernest E. Bayless and Ann Wical Bayless. 

He joined the US Army in 1967 and served for two years during the Vietnam War.  Bill was a proud member of the 11th Armored Calvary, the Blackhorse Association.  He worked as a truck driver and mail carrier.  He was a friend to all and never met a stranger.

Bill is survived by his sweetheart of 50 years, Regina K. Reynolds Bayless; loving sons, Bryan (Diane) Bayless, Phillip (Nicole) Bayless, Jarod Bayless, and Josh (Kasey) Bayless; 12 grandchildren that he adored, Jordon, Tyler, Lauren, Kylie, Lynzie, Alaina, Kalle, Madi, Katie, Brayden, Alli and Conner; a brother, Paul Bayless; and a sister, Bonita Bayless.

In addition to his parents, a brother, James Lee Bayless, is preceded in death.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon, Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at the Reynolds-Smith Funeral Home, 327 N. South Street, Wilmington, Ohio.  The family would like to honor Bill’s request, by having those in attendance dress casual.  A funeral service with Pastor John Fitzpatrick officiating will begin at 12:00 Noon, Tuesday.   Burial will follow in New Maple Grove Cemetery, Port William, Ohio with military honors provided by the American Legion Post 49 Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, P.O. Box 772373, Detroit, MI  48277-2373.

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