Harold Morris Bayes

Harold Morris Bayes died February 7, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mitchell and Pauline Bayes and step-father, Ellis Hill. He was proud to often say, “I am the third son of Mitchell and Pauline Bayes.”

Also preceding him in death are his brothers, Mike and Alan Bayes (Colleen); as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Bobby Jean VanHoose Bayes; step-son, Samuel Allen; brother, Jim Bayes (Beverly); in-laws, Yovonda VanHoose Miles (David R); nephew, David M Miles (Kristy); nieces, Kathleen Miles Black (Ken) and Elise Miles Bryan (Isaac) and their children, Isabelle, Evelyn, Abigail and Abraham.

Harold earned an Associate Degree from Prestonsburg Community College and a Bachelor’s degree from Morehead State University. He was a proud Vietnam Veteran and found it an honor to serve his country. While in the Navy, he was a Seaman 1st Class and a Boatswain Mate.

He had several jobs working with students who were physically, emotionally, of mentally challenged. He worked at Carl D. Perkins Rehabilitation Center; Floyd County Technical High School, Mattingly Center (for abused children), and Maryhurst Center (for children who were physically and emotionally abused). He had great empathy for children who suffered in any way.

Harold was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Hickory, NC on February 21st, 2026 at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.

Condolences may be sent to the Bayes family at www.drumfh-hickory.com.

Drum Funeral Home in Hickory is honored to be serving the Bayes family.