James Curtis Bayes

James Curtis Bayes, founder of H2O Design, LLC, passed away in his home when cancer had quickly and suddenly overtaken him on March 10, 2025. He was born in Winfield, Kansas on February 21, 1959. Jim spent most of his life in Arizona when his family moved here that very same year. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Juanita, with whom he was married for 15 years, and his children Michelle (Kurt) Bullock, Cody (Alisha) Bayes, James (Katie) Bayes, and step daughter, Tara Mitchell. He was a proud Papa to Jackson, Brooks, Finley, James, Berlin, Roman, Lively, Josiah, Anthony (Noemi), Kade, and Kalan. He was a prolific designer, specializing in pools and water parks, creating masterful and beautiful parks for companies like Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor, and Wet-n-Wild. He designed community pools and splash pads throughout Arizona, California, New York, Texas, and even internationally. His designs were functional works of art. For anything having to do with water, Jim was a master. When he wasn't designing pools, you could find him at his keyboard playing Gospel music or in the garage working on a home project. He was so much fun to be around, recounting humorous stories and events, quick to make a joke, and eager to play a joke on someone. He excelled at anything he set his mind to, quick to tell his family he loved them, and never quiet about his love for God. His faith in the Lord Jesus Christ was unwavering, no matter what life threw in his direction. He is preceded in death by his Father, Donald Bayes and his Mother, Betty Bayes. He is survived by his siblings Roger Bayes, Donna Bakemeier, Marty Bayes, and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends. All are welcome to attend a memorial in his honor at the chapel of North Phoenix Baptist Church on Saturday, March 29, at 2 pm. In Lieu of flowers, please consider giving to GoFundMe for Jim Bayes (supporting Aunt Nita and Uncle Jim).