James Pearsall Bayley

James "Jim" Pearsall Bayley, 57, of Stuart, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Stuart, FL on February 22, 1968, Jim spent most of his life in Michigan, where he and his wife, Heidi, raised their two daughters, Katie and Courtney. He attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering in 1990, and later completed a master's degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Detroit Mercy.

Jim built a successful career in the automotive industry, working for over three decades and serving most recently as an executive with Continental. In 2023, he returned to his roots in Florida to take over the Bayley family business, Sailfish Marina of Stuart, where he poured his energy and love for the water into continuing his family's legacy.

Jim lived life with passion and enthusiasm. He was happiest outdoors—skiing, snowmobiling, motorcycling, golfing, boating, or fishing—and he brought a sense of adventure and warmth to everything he did. His infectious laugh, generosity, and spirit of exploration left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Heidi (Gasser); his daughters, Katie and Courtney; and his parents, Butch and Jan Bayley.

Jim will be remembered for his adventurous heart, his kindness, and the way he made life brighter for those around him. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and the countless lives he touched.

Memorial Visitation will be held for Jim on Sunday, November 2nd from 3:00pm-7:00pm at the Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston, Michigan.

Memorial Mass Monday, November 3rd at 11:00 am at St. Daniel's Catholic Church, Clarkston, Michigan. Family and friends may arrive any time after 10:30am.

In lieu of flowers, donations  may be made to Florida Oceanographic Society, 890 Northeast Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996

Please consider leaving a memory or condolence on Jim's online guestbook below.