Leon Bayless

Leon Bayless passed away on April 17, 2026, in Warren, Texas, at the age of 89. He was born on February 17, 1937, in Mannford, Oklahoma, to Reverend Huey and Thurley (née Neil) Bayless.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents; his brother-in-law, Billy Nelson; and his sister-in-law, Stella Bayless.

He is survived by his devoted wife of forty-eight years, Geraldine “Jerry” (née Collins) Bayless; his sister, Shirley Nelson of Lumberton, Texas; and his brother, Doyle Bayless of Knoxville, Tennessee. He also leaves behind a large and loving family: his children, Mike Bayless and wife, Connie of Boerne, Texas; LeAn Heckathorn and husband, Jody of Beaumont, Texas; Sabrina Ross and husband, Cody of Fannett, Texas; Barbara Sims of Montgomery, Texas; Sherry Blackwell of Warren, Texas; Kathy Parker of Warren, Texas; and Mike Tubbs and wife Karen, of Hodge, Louisiana.

Leon was a proud grandfather to fourteen grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, each of whom brought him immense joy.

Leon studied Biblical Theology at Southwestern University in Waxahachie, Texas, from 1955 to 1956, laying the foundation for a life devoted to faith and service. As an ordained minister, he served as an evangelist, traveling across multiple states to hold revivals where he ministered both in song and in the Word of God.

A gifted musician, Leon was trained in multiple instruments and was known for his beautiful singing voice. He was also a skilled carpenter who built homes and took great pride in woodworking. His grandchildren especially cherished the life-size Christmas yard displays he created each year, a tradition that brought joy to all who saw them.

In addition to his ministry, Leon built a successful career as an insurance and real estate broker, beginning around 1965 and continuing until his retirement in 2003. In retirement, he and his beloved wife Jerry joined MAPS, an Assemblies of God ministry, where they traveled to assist churches, helping build new sanctuaries, repair existing structures, and complete remodeling projects.

Leon had a deep love for music, craftsmanship, and serving others, but his favorite pastime was fishing. You could often find him at a lake, rod in hand, patiently waiting for the next catch.

Leon never met a stranger, made lifetime friends while camping and fishing, and was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering faith left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Matthew 4:19 reminds us: 

“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

 Leon answered that call faithfully throughout his life. He was truly a fisherman in every sense of the word, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Cremation arrangements for Mr. Bayless were handled through Broussard’s Crematorium under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A family memorial service will be held at a later date.