Frank Bayley

Longtime Carmi businessman and active philanthropist, co-founder of Martin and Bayley, Inc., Frank Mount Bayley, 86, passed away Saturday, October 18, 2014. Frank was born August 5, 1928 in Norris City, IL, the son of Lowry Hinch and Etta (Mount) Bayley. He married Mary Margaret Downen December 7, 1952. He was known for his warm smile, love of his family and concern for the well being of others. He was an avid car collector, and loved boats and airplanes also. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, American Legion, VFW, Rotary Club and Elks Lodge in Carmi. He enjoyed spending time at Kentucky Lake, Branson, MO and Marco Island, FL. He served his country as a Master Sargent in the Army during the Korean War. Following his time in the service Frank focused on the grocery business, co-developing Big John Superstores. Big Johns later evolved into Huck's Convenience Stores, currently operating throughout the midwest. As a businessman, Frank was also involved in several other endeavors including LB Ford in both Carmi and Flora, IL.

Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Mary Bayley of Carmi; a daughter and son-in-law, Cheryl and David Young of Carmi; a son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Linda Bayley of Carmi; two sisters, Wilma Bayley of Carmi and Ruth South of Sacramento, CA; a brother and sister-in-law, L. H. and Dianne Bayley of Indianapolis, IN; three grandchildren and their spouses, Landon and Andie Bayley, Brittany Bayley Murray and Dustin Murray, and Sarah Young Niemeier and Matthew Niemeier; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, George Curtis Bayley.

Funeral services for Frank Mount Bayley, 86, of Carmi, will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Carmi with Roger Price and Rev. Nate Mochizuki officiating. Entombment will be in Union Ridge Cemetery in Norris City with military rites by Carmi American Legion and VFW. Friends may call on Wednesday, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Frank's name to Huck's nonprofit organization, Karing for Kids, or a charity of their choice. Karing for Kids donations may be mailed to Martin & Bayley, 1311A West Main Street, Carmi, IL 62821. Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi is in charge of arrangements.