Judith A Bayer

On February 20, 2026, Judith "Judy" Bayer heard the words every faithful servant longs to hear and entered into the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ. Born on January 10, 1940, to Claude and Edith VanGunten, Judy was raised in Maumee, where she graduated from Maumee High School in 1958.

In time, she moved to "the country" in Liberty Center, where she and her former husband, Andre Bayer, raised their children. Later, she spent her remaining years in Gibsonburg - a place she called home until the Lord called her to Heaven.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her beloved brothers, Don VanGunten and Tom VanGunten.

Judy was first and foremost a devoted mother and "Granny." She was dearly loved by her two children, Ted (Tammy) Bayer and Aimee (Joe) Whetsel. Her legacy of faith, love, and strength lives on through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Brandon Bayer; Nate (Nicole) Bayer; Daine and Bo Bayer; Kristen Bayer; Julianna Stasher; Brittney (Shad) King; Noah King and Khloe King; Jessica (Logan) Jones; Kooper, Krew, and Penelope Jones; Katelyn Whetsel (Cory Herr); and Karter Herr.

Her family was the love of her life, and she poured herself wholeheartedly into each one of them. There was no game or event she wouldn't try to attend. If her grand- or great-grandchildren were participating, you could count on Granny being there - cheering loudly and sometimes shouting obnoxiously from the sidelines.

Judy loved people deeply, and they loved her in return. She thrived in the center of activity -at every gathering and every family celebration. Always on the go, she was ready at a moment's notice to jump in her car, especially if it meant "taxiing" her grandkids somewhere. Those car rides were never a chore to her; they were treasured opportunities for time together.

She cherished visits with her sisters, Sara (Kevin) Toerne and Mary Jo (Rick) Fox, sharing a lifetime of laughter and treasured memories. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister-in-law, Pat VanGunten, as well as her many nieces and nephews, all of whom were blessed by her love and presence.

Judy had a lifelong love for horses and faithfully served for many years as a 4-H advisor. She trained horses and coached young riders in competitions, but more importantly, she helped shape character, instill discipline, and build confidence in young lives. Her influence extended far beyond the arena.

A woman of strength and determination, Judy worked diligently throughout her life. She held bookkeeping positions, raised farm animals, and owned a start-up western clothing store. She was never afraid of hard work - she even did much of the labor to help build her family's home. Creative and gifted, she was an extraordinary seamstress. From intricate horse show outfits to beautiful wedding dresses, there was nothing she couldn't create. Her love for decorating and crafting was evident in everything she touched, and her Christmas packages were legendary works of art, each one wrapped with care, imagination, and love.

Above all, Judy lived a life of generosity. She gave her time freely, her wisdom honestly, her opinions boldly, and her love unconditionally. She served others as Christ calls us to serve - with a willing heart and open hands.

Though her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life. Because of her faith in Jesus Christ, they know this is not goodbye, but "until we meet again." What a glorious reunion that will be.

In accordance with Judy's wishes, there will be no public service. Her family will gather privately at a later time to celebrate her life and honor her memory.