Mary Ellen Bayens

Mary Ellen Bayens, 73, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at U of L Health – Jewish Hospital. Born on November 16, 1952, to William Bower and Dorothy Bower, Mary was a woman who defied stereotypes. As she grew older, she didn't settle into simplicity; instead, she became more vibrantly herself-honing in on the specific passions that brought her joy.

A devoted "Trekkie" and sci-fi enthusiast, Mary could often be found immersed in the worlds of Star Trek. Her heart, however, was firmly rooted in her love for animals, specifically her constant companion of 21 years, her cat Maggie. Mary was known for her quiet generosity, whether she was treating the entire table to dinner or attending the annual Dare to Care Taste of Derby. She spent many years as a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church alongside her late husband, Chuck.

Mary is reunited in peace with her husband, Charles "Chuck" Bayens; her parents; her brothers, Gary and Jerry Bower; and her stepfather, Charles Brameier.

She is survived by her children, Lauren Elyse Bayens and Kent Edward Bayens; her sisters, Sherry Wilson and Kerry Begley; sisters-in-law Paula and Gwinda Bower; and a loving host of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her beloved cat, Maggie.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at E.M. Coots' Sons Funeral Home. Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 5, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and again on Friday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Following the service, Mary will be cremated, and her remains will be interred with her husband at Walnut Ridge Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy be made in Mary's honor to Dare to Care.