Josephine Anne (Spagnola) Bauer

Josephine Anne Bauer, affectionately known as Jay, passed away peacefully at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of artistic talent and cherished conversations. She is survived by her devoted husband, Lewis, with whom she shared 69 wonderful years, and her loving family: son, Gary Bauer and spouse Priscilla (Janocha) Bauer; daughter, Deb Bauer Ryan and spouse, Greg Ryan; daughter, Lori Bauer; and son, Scott Bauer and spouse, Karen (Leonard) Bauer. Jay was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren and a great-grandmother to six.

A licensed beautician and gemologist, Jay was also a gifted painter, creating beautiful works in watercolor, acrylic, and pencil. Her art has found homes in many hearts, including a collaborative piece displayed at Lee Memorial Hospital and donations to Passavant Hospital. Even in her final months, she was designing jewelry for her daughters, showcasing her unwavering creativity. She had a particularly keen eye for setting gems and diamonds. To her, it was never about forcing a stone to fit, but about finding how it should be placed and worn so it could shine at its best.

Jay was born in Pittsburgh, Pa. She was the youngest daughter born to the Spagnola family, a large Italian clan that filled holiday celebrations with familial warmth, food & drink, and many entertaining stories of growing up in old Pittsburgh and in the old country. Jay and Lew raised their family in Pittsburgh’s North Hills. After their children graduated college, they became empty nesters, Florida snowbirds, and later permanent residents in a retirement community at Lexington Country Club located in Fort Myers, Fla. An avid golfer well into her late 70s, Jay enjoyed a vibrant life filled with social activity. In her 80s, Jay’s curiosity had her lean into mahjong. Although a novice, she once said she loved it when she could place the final tile down with a satisfying click. Jay and Lew spent nearly 30 years in Fort Myers before relocating to Sun City in Bluffton, S.C., to be closer to family after Hurricane Ian.

Jay's spirit will be deeply missed, especially by her husband, who remained by her side through her battle with pancreatic cancer. Her warmth and creativity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A private family Mass and celebration of life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be mailed in her honor to: ALSAC/St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 3810