Obituary published on Legacy.com by Phillips Funeral Home on Oct. 16, 2025.
Christine Elizabeth Bayliss, Chris to her friends and family and "Nana" to her beloved grandchildren, passed away Thursday, October 9, 2025 at her residence in
Eldon, Missouri. She was 61 years old. Chris cared very deeply for her family and friends and will be remembered fondly and missed terribly.
Chris was born June 10, 1964 in Long Beach, California to Rev. David Ford Carlson and Margaret "Carol"(Adams) Kerr. As a child, Chris lived in many places, eventually settling in Wisconsin where she attended Catholic Memorial High School in Waukesha, WI.
As a young mother, Chris devoted herself to creating a magical childhood for her daughters. She aspired to make every Christmas the best and spent countless hours crafting dollhouses, costumes, and clothes for them. Chris raised her children in Colgate, Wisconsin with her former husband Steve. She held various administrative roles in her work life, and was always counted on as a supportive and reliable member of the team. Most recently, she served as a loving and patient caregiver for her mother.
Chris was a bright and creative person with a thoughtful nature, but she also had a sharp sense of humor and infectious laugh. She was an avid reader who appreciated a good twist. She excelled at puzzles and games. Chris was a talented maker: she sewed beautiful quilts for family and friends, each one lovingly personalized, that will be a comfort to all in her absence. Chris was also known for her culinary talents - her French onion soup was legendary, and her stuffed mushrooms became a highly anticipated staple at every Thanksgiving dinner. She had a deep love and respect for animals, caring for many dogs, cats, and fish throughout her life. Her adventurous spirit drew her to SCUBA diving, where she explored underwater life around the world from the Caribbean to the kelp forests of California. Most of all, Chris shared a
special bond with her grandchildren. She was always eager to spoil them, and they brought her profound joy.
Chris is survived by her daughters, Jamie Bayliss (Zack Goehner), Jessica Bayliss (Patrick O'Riley); her five grandchildren, Luke, Will, Adelaide, Jack, and Oona; her mother, Margaret "Carol" Kerr; her brothers, T.J. Carlson (Misty), and Joel Carlson (Monica); her foster brothers, Long Tran (Tracey), and Loc Trinh; and 8 nieces and nephews. Chris is preceded in death by her infant twin sister, Margaret Ann Carlson, and her father, David Carlson.
Per her wishes, her body has been cremated. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Phillips Funeral Home of
Eldon, MO. A service will be planned by the family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Ocean Conservatory to protect the oceans that Chris loved for future generations. https://donate.oceanconservancy.org/page/45475/donate/1
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