James D. Bayer, 76, of Washington, IL, passed away on March 5, 2025. He was born on September 18, 1948, in Peoria, IL, to Charles F. Bayer and Ethel A. Bayer (Farden).

On September 30, 1967, James married his beloved wife, Barbara Bayer, in Peoria, IL. Together, they raised two daughters, Jamie Bennington (Bayer) and Kelli Boeckmann (Bayer). James was a loving and proud grandfather to Reily and Evan Shawgo, Dakota and Natalie Bennington, Noah and Libby Bennington, Gracie and Mathew Wagner, Molly Bennington, and Connor Boeckmann. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Brinley, Charlie, Brooks, and Hansen. In addition to his immediate family, James cherished his nieces and nephews, who were an important part of his life.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ethel Bayer, and his siblings Joann and Woody Woods, and Joyce and Jerry Knickerbocker.

James graduated from Woodruff High School in Peoria, where he was known for his athleticism, excelling as a star player in basketball, football, and baseball. After high school, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1970. Following his military service, James worked as a professional painter for 40 years. His dedication to his work and passion for sports extended beyond his career. He enjoyed coaching his daughters in softball and loved watching his children and grandchildren participate in various sports.

James was deeply involved in his faith. He was a long-time member, deacon, and leader at Bethany Baptist Church in Peoria, IL, and most recently, a member of Bethany Community Church in Washington, IL. His leadership and commitment to his church family were an extension of his strong Christian faith.

James will be remembered for his love for family, his unwavering faith, his leadership in the church, and his devotion to his country. His favorite Bible verse was II Timothy 2:15, "Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth," which exemplified his commitment to living a life of integrity.

James is survived by his wife Barbara, daughters Jamie and Kelli, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. He will be missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of James' life will be held at Bethany Community Church in Washington, IL on Sunday, March 9. The family will be available from 3-4 for visitation and a service will directly follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethany Community Church in Washington, IL.