Jo Ann K. Bayer

Bayer, Jo Ann, 50, fortified with the Sacraments of the Holy Church; dear wife of the late Walter (Jack) Bayer; dear mother of Adam and Ashley; grandmother of Scarlett; aunt, great-aunt, cousin and dear friend to many. Eulogy from dear friend, Betsy. In a world so focused on earthly possessions and material wants, Jo Ann followed Christ’s example of how we should live our lives with humility and service. Jesus gave us the eight Beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount, and I believe that Jo Ann followed these teachings in her everyday life. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Jo Ann was humble. She led a simple life as a devoted wife to her husband Jack and loving mother to Adam and Ashley. She was my truest and best friend. She was always there if anyone needed her. We shared long talks about everything and shared secrets. Walking to Mr. Donut on a snow day or taking a long car ride to nowhere were our favorite pastimes. “Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Jo Ann lost her beloved father and mother at a very young age. Aunt Kay, who also passed recently, selflessly took her in and loved her as if she were her own. Her sweet husband Jack or “Hubby,” also died unexpectedly soon thereafter. Although her heart was broken I’m sure, you would never know it by her cheery disposition. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Jo Ann was gentle and kind. She would never intentionally hurt anyone and her laugh would always make my day! “Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Jo Ann was a devoted Catholic and loved Jesus. She led a Christian life and was a perfect example of God’s everlasting love, following in the footsteps of her favorite cousin and “big sister,” Eileen. She loved Eileen dearly and valued everything she taught her. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” Jo Ann had a loving personality and it was a joy to be around her. When she walked into a room, everyone felt good immediately and soon after would be laughing! “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.” To be pure of heart means to be free of all selfish intentions and self-seeking desires. Jo Ann was diagnosed with colon cancer 12 years ago. “Let me help you!” I would say. “What can I do for you? Are you ok? What do you need, Jo Ann? I’m here for you!” Jo Ann would reply, “It’s ok. I’m ok. Don’t worry. I have everything I need. No need to come.” I thought I should be helping her. She was protecting me from her illness. Quietly suffering as Jesus did. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” Jo Ann provided peace for her family and friends. (Not that she didn’t love a good argument!!) She could put up a fight for a cause or person that she believed in. However, she valued the relationships with her loved ones and would do anything to keep peace and harmony. “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” Through all of her trials in this life on earth, I know that she is now in heaven. Jo Ann lived out the eight Beatitudes daily, and deeply loved Adam, Ashley, and Jack. She was my best friend, my angel on earth, my hero. Love, Betsy Visitation at Hutchens Mortuary, 675 Graham Sunday July 5, 2015 3-8 pm. Funeral mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Monday July 6 at 10am Burial at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery to follow. Memorials to Pathways for Independence

Jo Ann K. Bayer

November 13, 1964 - June 25, 2015