James Bays

James Adair Bays, Sr. of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania passed away on December 14, 2018 at Chambersburg Hospital. Jim was born in Sprague, West Virginia on August 9, 1940 to the late Van and Lucille Bays. He was a “Kitty Cruiser” proudly serving in the U.S. Navy as an electrician in Louisiana.
After serving in the Navy, Jim enjoyed racing dirt bikes and won many awards. Jim had many jobs before finding his calling in sales. He worked for Montgomery Ward, Bell Furniture Industries, Ethan Allen Furniture and Wolfe Furniture before deciding to become an independent furniture salesman.
After his marriage to Melanie in 2003, he retired and pursued his other interests and hobbies. They included playing poker with his friends, watching boxing, taking care of the lawn with his John Deere tractor, hunting ground hogs and coyotes but most of all, eating Melanie’s delicious meals and baked goods.
Jim shall be greatly missed by Melanie and her children, Emily McCarty, Ann Jonas, Jon Mao and Jennie Mao. Jim will also be missed by Irene Mao and her children, Rendy Mao and Renee Mao.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, December 23, 2018 at 1 pm at St. Luke Lutheran Church, 2695 Luther Drive, Chambersburg, PA 17202. Pastor Christopher Frye will officiate and a short reception will follow the service. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in the honor of Jim Bays to Occupational Services, 17 Redwood Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201 or The ARC of Franklin & Fulton Counties, 2314 Philadelphia Avenue, Chambersburg, PA 17202.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Chambersburg, PA. Online condolences may be offered on his Book of Memories page at www.geiselfuneralhome.com