Benjamin Joseph Bayer

Mr. Benjamin Joseph Bayer, 82, passed away on Saturday evening, June 22, 2024.

Ben was born on November 1, 1941, in St. Louis, Missouri. He was the widower of Estelle Park Bayer, to whom he was married for over 48 years.

Ben was the President of his 1959 graduating class at St. John the Baptist High School in St. Louis, Missouri. After high school he enlisted in the Air Force serving 7 years as a Radio Intercept Analyst and was honored to receive a special assignment by the NSA (National Security Agency). Following his military service, he returned to St. Louis and worked for AT&T. In addition, he was co-owner of Bay Way fish supply store. In 1971 he married Estelle and in 1973 the couple moved to Richmond.

Ben attended Eastern Kentucky University, graduating in 1977 after 3 years with a degree in Business Administration. He began working as a cashier in Billings and Collections at EKU and went on to become the Assistant Director and eventually the Director of Billings and Collections. He retired in 2002 after serving EKU for 26 years. Ben was an Associate Member of the Madison County Democratic Women’s Club, member of the Exchange Club and American Legion and a supporter of the EKU Colonel Club during his lifetime. He will be remembered as a smart and witty gentleman who enjoyed bowling, trivia, cards and following his favorite sports teams.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents: Russell and LaVerne Bayer; two brothers: Herbert and Albert Bayer and his father and mother-in-law: Forniss and Maude Ella Park.

He is survived by his brother: Russell Thomas Bayer (Sue); two daughters: Laura (Kenny) Dedic and Frances Bayer; three grandchildren: Natalie Dedic, Tyler Dedic and Maudella Bayer and eleven nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinsons Foundation or to Hospice Care Plus.