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William Niven Bayless
William Niven Bayless
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William Bayless Obituary
Bill, born January 28th, 1941, was the son of William "Neville" Bayless and Margaret Bayless and the brother of Ronald, Robert, Thomas, and David Bayless. The family spent their upbringing in Rocky River, outside of Cleveland, OH, where Bill and his brothers attended St. Christopher Elementary and St. Ignatius High School. Bill attended Loyola University Chicago (BA), majoring in philosophy. He continued his passion for philosophy and learning at The University of Chicago (MA) and for his doctorate at Brown University (PhD).
He initially pursued academia and served as a professor at Rutgers University, before a shift to governmental work. He proceeded to work at the Cleveland branch for the Department of Housing and Urban Development and served as a federal employee for 44 years before retirement. He spoke highly of federal work and expressed utmost gratitude for a career that provided well for his family. He followed in his father's footsteps as an active member of The Cheshire Cheese Club, where Neville previously served as the president.
Bill met Elna Layese, a native of the Philippines, and they wed in Cebu on May 17th, 1993. They settled in Rocky River, OH, and welcomed their oldest daughter, Sharlo Bayless, on October 16th, 1994. Their youngest daughter, Catherine "Kate" Bayless, followed on April 5th, 1997.
Family was a great joy for Bill, and he dedicated himself to Elna, Sharlo and Kate. He never missed an orchestra performance or dance recital, and his immense generosity, kindness, and gentleness was never unnoticed. He was delighted to watch his children follow his love of education. A proud highlight for him was Sharlo's medical school graduation, and Kate's admission into her doctoral program at the University of Toronto.
As a devout Catholic, Bill always encouraged his family to "be of good cheer," and in the midst of his passing, his family finds comfort in his emphasis that the separation is only temporary.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, daughters, son-in-law, brothers, and many nieces and nephews.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Veronica Sims
May 17, 2024
Bill had physical restrictions that would not allow him to come in-person to work more often, so, he felt retirement was the only resolution. Ensuring he knew who to contact for all his needs during this confusing and difficult time was most important to me. Bill and I had more fruitful conversations in past weeks than we did since being AFGE HUD Local 911 President.
Bill had been a dedicated AFGE member since May 4, 1982, and his Ohio & Chicago collegaues respected him to the utmost. Although a quiet and mild mannered person, he would give historical perspective on areas many knew nothing about. On behalf of AFGE HUD 911 we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Bayless family! AFGE Local 911President, Veronica Bobbitt
Phyllis Mitchell
May 14, 2024
I worked with Bill in the Cleveland Multifamily Asset Manage office. I will miss Bill. Although he was a quite and private person, he would talk about his children when asked. Whenever i asked about the girls he would proudly beam about their academic progress. It was abvious that he loved them dearly.
Kimberley Newman
May 13, 2024
Bill was a coworker and a great one! He was quiet but was always willing to answer a question when asked. I emailed him on April 4, 2024 here at work and I told him that he would be missed. I also told him that I enjoyed working with him, so mild-mannered. I asked him, "If you leave me with anything to use as a learning tool in your tenure with HUD, what would it be." His reply, "I am gratified indeed that you have found me to be cooperative and ready to assist. The learning tool I would leave you with: simply be the way you have always been! It has been a pleasure working with you. "Most of us are not deemed to do great things, but to do small things with great love." - Mother Teresa of Calcutta"" Rest on Bill, your work on this side has been done. May the doors of heaven be opened for you.
Sylvia L. Davis
May 13, 2024
I had the pleasure of serving as a trainer in the HUD Columbus Office where I had opporutnity to meet William. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I extend prayers of peace and comfort to the loved oned. Sylvia L. Davis, HUD, MFH - Chicago
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