William D. “Sparky” Bayliss, a longtime resident of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Bill was 94 years old. He was born January 27, 1932 in St. Marys, West Virginia, to Roy and Hallie Bayliss. He was the youngest of four children.
Bill, affectionately known as “Sparky” and “Wild Bill,” was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. He is survived by daughters; Sheila Bayliss (David Hughes) Millersport, Ohio, and Keitha Hanes(Robert Hanes) Buckeye Lake, Ohio; Grandson, Levi (Amy) Smith, Taylors, SC ; great grandsons, Cooper and Rylan Smith; sister in law, Shirley McKenzie of Largo, FL.; brother in law, Gary Mckenzie of Collegeport, TX. Bill is also survived by friends; Rocky (Tammie) Canterbury family and Joe Shafer.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Frances Nadine Bayliss; very special friend, Beverly Riggs; brother, Lyle Wallace Bayliss; and sisters, Dolores Hastings and Helen Bayliss.
“Sparky” was a man who truly lived for his family.He was involved in activities and always offered encouragement, support, and a helping hand. He was a man of many talents and interests. Bill served as 4-H advisor for the horse and rabbit clubs; he was instrumental in spearheading a star gazing and astronomy club with Dr. Franklin Miller of Kenyon College; he enjoyed photography and set up his own darkroom; and he enjoyed following his son-in-law’s career in aviation and became a pilot himself. In his younger years he enjoyed racing cars, a passion that reflected his spirited personality. Bill also loved motorcycles. He was given the name “Wild Bill” by his motorcycle classmates for completing a riding course at Harley Davidson. At eighty-eight years old he was riding his Goldwing trike to doctor appointments and his doctors were always amazed! Known for his ever-present smile and his corny jokes, Bill had a way of bringing joy to everyone around him. If someone needed help, he was always the first to step in without hesitation. Bill was always helping neighbors and friends. He was a graduate of Mount Vernon High School, a member of the Church of Christ, and was a proud Veteran Sergeant in the US Army in the Korean War. He carried his service with honor throughout his life. Bill taught electrical maintenance at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. He spent most of his life in the automotive industry before retiring from Cooper Energy Services.
One of his fondest memories was getting a phone call in the middle of the night from musician Bo Diddley. The band’s vehicle was broken down. “Sparky” fixed the vehicle and got Bo Diddley and crew back on the road. Bill “Sparky” will be missed by all who ever had the pleasure of meeting him throughout his life. We are forever grateful to all who touched Bill’s life at Altercare Thornville and particularly during his final journey. No services will take place, as Bill requested, but we do appreciate your love and support.
Bill will be laid to rest in the Brandon Cemetery in Brandon, Ohio.
Funeral Home: Evergreen Funeral Home
Website: evergreenfuneralservice.com