Edward D. Bayless

Edward David Bayless, affectionately known as Ed, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, in Lake Isabella, Michigan. Born on January 9, 1951, in Clawson, Michigan to the late George and Dorothy (Tarrier) Bayless, Ed's life was marked by devotion to his family, his country, and his faith.

Ed's journey through life was one of enduring love and commitment. On June 13, 2015, he married his soulmate, Kathy Cloutier, at Hopewell General Baptist Church in Flint, Michigan. This union brought him immense joy and a loving, blended family that he cherished deeply. Ed's legacy continues through his beloved wife of 10 years, Kathy, his children Jennifer (Marvin) Lewis, and Dawn (Mitchell Chase) Bayless, stepsons Chris Meacham, Aaron (Michelle) Cloutier, and Jordan (Kaitlyn) Cloutier. His life was further brightened by the laughter and love of his grandchildren Rae-Anne Lewis, Patrick Gibbs, Jacob Carpenter, Amelia Jean, Emery, Easton James, Duke Owen, and Mila Marie Cloutier.

Ed's siblings, Fay Tyburski, Bryan Bayless, and Jeffrey Bayless, along with his three nieces, Sheila (Dave) Kloski, Melanie (John) Heisler, Emily (Dean) Cooper, as well as many great nieces and nephews, will hold dear the memories of a brother and uncle who brought light and laughter into their lives. Preceding him in death were his second wife, Shirley Bayless, and two sisters, Katherine Bayless and Georgina Ann Natho, with whom he now rests in peace.

A proud veteran, Ed served his country with honor in the United States Air Force. His dedication to service continued into his civilian life where he retired from Digi trace as a calibration engineer. The precision and discipline he exhibited in his work were a testament to his character and his commitment to excellence.

Ed was a man of faith and held a great passion for his church, Hopewell General Baptist Church, where he was an active member and served as a Deacon for many years. His church family was a source of strength and community, and he gave back with the same generosity and love that he received.

Beyond his work and church activities, Ed was a man of many interests. He will be remembered for his love of music, his adventurous spirit in the great outdoors fishing and hunting, and his keen interest in history. As a tinkerer of electronics, Ed's curiosity and ingenuity were clear. Yet, above all, his greatest joy was found in the time spent with his family.

Ed's life was a tapestry woven with love, humor, and adventure. He had the ability to light up a room with his presence and leave a lasting impression on everyone he met. His loving nature, quick wit, and adventurous spirit were the hallmarks of a well-lived life and will be profoundly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Per Ed's request cremation has taken place, inurnment that will be held later at the Great Lakes National Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home.