Tom Bayless

John Thomas "Tom" Bayless

John Thomas "Tom" Bayless went home to be with Jesus on May 26, 2026, at the age of 78.

Tom was born on August 11, 1947, in Marion, Indiana, to John D. and Betty Bayless. As a young man, he loved basketball and attended Fairmount High School, graduating in 1965.

Following graduation, Tom pursued a variety of careers throughout his life. He farmed, drove a semi-truck, served as a manager for 11 years with International Harvester Parts, sold farm implements, worked for nine years at Benic Enterprises, and eventually owned and operated a NAPA Auto Parts store.

On February 22, 2017, Tom married Kitty Duncan, a match truly made in Heaven. Together they shared a deep love for family, faith, and community. Tom especially cherished working alongside his family, including JC Bayless, Shellie Smith, and his son-in-law, Denny Smith. He was also a proud and devoted grandfather to Garrison, Gannon, and Landrie.

On June 14, 2017, Tom accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and remained a faithful servant of God for the rest of his life. His faith was the foundation of everything he did. He loved his church and found great joy in sharing the love, grace, and warmth of Jesus Christ with everyone he met. Tom was a member of First Baptist Church of Umatilla, Florida, and was a respected pillar of the community at Scottish Highlands in Leesburg, Florida.

Tom was also a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 313 and the Fairmount Masonic Lodge No. 635.

He was preceded in death by his father, John D. Bayless; his mother, Betty Bayless; and his sister, Judy Morgan.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Kitty; his family members and grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

One of Tom's favorite Bible verses was John 14:6:

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

Memorial services for Tom have been entrusted to Fairmount Chapel, Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 415 S. Main St., Fairmount, Indiana.

A Life Celebration Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on June 11, 2026, at the funeral home. Friends may gather one hour prior to the service.

The Fairmount American Legion Post 313 will conduct a memorial salute at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Memories and condolences may be made at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com