Ray "Woody" Woodrow Bayne Jr.

A true Southern gentleman, Woody was known for his kindness, steady presence, and the genuine warmth he shared so generously with others. For more than sixty years, his loyal customers at Bayne Heating and Air relied on him—rain or shine—to answer their call. His dedication, integrity, and tireless work ethic made him a trusted figure in the community and a friend to many.

Educated in Greenville County Schools, Woody formed lifelong friendships, including treasured bonds with his high school buddies, Jimmy Ray and Bobby Putnam. He also grew up alongside two beloved brothers, Bob and Mike with whom he shared a deep and enduring connection.

Woody’s life found its greatest joy when he met his soulmate, Katherine Watts Bayne, the love of his life and partner in every adventure. Katherine, a retired Greenville County school administrator, walked beside him through decades of laughter, devotion, and shared purpose. Together, they created a family rooted in love and faith for forty-five years.

A devoted father to Michel, Andrea, and Gregg, Woody poured his heart into his role as a parent. He was equally proud to be a grandfather and a beloved uncle, always ready with a warm smile, a steady hand, or a comforting word. His family will forever cherish the memories he helped create. His absence leaves an ache in the hearts of all who loved him, and he will be profoundly missed.

During retirement, Woody delighted in seeing the world with Katherine. Their travels took them to Mexico, Hawaii, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, and the California Wine Country, each destination filling him with the awe and wonder that defined his spirit. He approached life with curiosity, gratitude, and a quiet appreciation for beauty in all its forms including Broadway Plays at The Peace Center.

A man of deep and abiding faith, attending church was the highlight of his week. His devotion shaped the way he lived—grounded, humble, and guided by a strong moral compass. Woody also found great joy in cheering for his Clemson Tigers and sharing his famous recipe for pimento cheese, watching the Atlanta Braves, and making cherished trips to the Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta. Friends often joked that he could easily have won the Ernest Hemingway Look-Alike Competition in Key West, though he never allowed himself to be talked into entering.

Woody is preceded in death by his parents Ray Woodrow Bayne and Polly Robertson and his brother, Charles Robert Bayne. Woody is survived by his wife Katherine Bayne and his loving children, daughter Andrea Bayne Ham and family of Nashville, Tennessee; and sons Gregg Bayne and family and Michel Bayne and family all of Greenville; brother James Michael Bayne and family of Lenoir, N.C.; beloved nephews Kevin Bayne of Greenville; special niece Kelly Bayne Curry and family of Greenville; Michael Self and family of China Grove, N.C.; and Jill Chandler Ford of Charleston along with six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

On Friday, December 12, 2025, the family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church located at 405 Trailblazer Drive, Travelers Rest, S.C. with Dr. Chris Jones officiating at the 11 a.m. service. The internment will take place for family only at Springwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice in Woody's honor.

Condolences may be sent to Box 813, Taylors, S.C. 29687.

“Honor your grief, for it is sacred. It is a testament to the depth of your heart. And in time, through the pain, you will find healing—not because you have forgotten, but because you have learned how to carry both love and loss together.”- Jim Carrey