James Orville Bays, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 24th, 2026, due to complications from surgery. He was born on November 20, 1946, to Lee and Thelma Bays in Crocker, MO, as the youngest of 7. Jim was predeceased by his 6 siblings and parents, who undoubtedly welcomed him home with open arms.

Jim was a man of many talents and a force of nature. His boundless generosity and altruistic spirit granted him the ability to make friends with anyone he met, leading him to be very well respected and admired wherever he was. Jim’s kindness knew no bounds; if there was an opportunity to help someone in need, he always made an effort to do so.

Jim married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Donna “Sue” Sellers-Bays, in their hometown of Crocker, MO, on December 5, 1964. Together, they shared 61 extraordinary years of marriage filled with love, adventure, and an undying loyalty to one another. They were blessed with three children - James Jr. (Michelle), Bea (Randy), and Norman - who in turn gave them six grandchildren: Niki (Andrew), Ali (Hayden), Samantha, Nathaniel, Ian, and RJ; and seven great-grandchildren.

After graduating from Crocker High School in May 1964, Jim would embark on his distinguished military career, dedicating 20 years to the United States Navy. During his service, he would achieve the rank of Aviation Electronics Senior Chief Petty Officer (E-8), serve four tours in Vietnam, and earn over 20 certifications, awards, and medals. After his retirement from military service, Jim would spend another 24 years as a logistician for the US Government.

His life would be further enriched after Jim and Sue moved to Carroll County, TN, in 2009, where he would spend the next 17 years serving the County as a member of both the volunteer Fire and Search & Rescue squads and giving to his community in profound ways. Jim had a deep passion for the natural world, which was only overshadowed by his love for anything mechanical - especially old tractors. When he was not out helping a neighbor, he could always be found in his man cave tinkering on the next project. His hands never idle, Jim constantly worked to improve the lives of those around him.

A visitation and memorial service to honor Jim's extraordinary life will be held on October 10, 2026, with visitation starting at 11:00 AM and services to follow at 12:00 PM at the American Legion Avon Post, located at 4812 E Main St, Avon, IN 46123. Family, friends, and all whose lives he touched are invited to celebrate his life and legacy. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to all who have supported them during this difficult time, and they continue to find comfort in the love and kindness extended by so many.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be collecting donations for the Carroll County Search & Rescue Squad. Jim's legacy of love, service, and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew him, and his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him dearly.