John Gilbert Bayless

He was born on January 7, 1935, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, to Jack and Faye Bayless.

John attended Eureka High School, where he met the love of his life, Betty Lou Ramsey. They were married on April 1, 1956, and shared many wonderful years together. They were blessed with five children: Becky, Jody, John, Jason, and James

In 1957, John joined the United States Navy and was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. After completing his service, he and Betty returned to Enid, Oklahoma, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. He later continued his studies at Oklahoma State University, earning his Doctorate in Education in 1966.

John began his career as an instructor and eventually became Head of the Physical Education Department at Oklahoma State University. A dedicated educator and mentor, he positively impacted thousands of students over the course of his career. After 28 years in higher education, John and Betty moved to San Antonio, Texas, where he continued teaching as an elementary physical education teacher for an additional five years.

John was an avid OSU Cowboys fan. He and Betty were also active members of an RV community known as the Bluebonnets, where they enjoyed spending weekends playing cards, cornhole, and dominoes with friends.

In 1964, John and Betty began a new and meaningful chapter in their lives by fostering children for the state of Oklahoma. Over the years, they lovingly cared for more than 200 children in Oklahoma and Texas. In recognition of their dedication, they were honored as Texas Foster Parents of the Year. They retired from fostering a few years later.

John is survived by his five children, Becky (Cindy), Jody, John, Jason, and James; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Bayless (Ramsey); his parents, Jack and Faye Bayless; and his brother, Jerry Bayless.

A service for both John and Betty will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, May 1, 2026 at 9:45 am

Instead of flowers, please donate to The Children’s Shelter of San Antonio.