Gretna……….John Wayne "Ace" Bailess, age 74 of Gretna died Monday, March 11, 2024 at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital.

Born October 2, 1949 in Pittsylvania County, he was a son of the late John Huston Bailess and Vera Soyars Bailess.  He was predeceased by one son, Chris Bailess; and one daughter-in-law, Holly Bailess.  Wayne was a heavy equipment operator, a truck driver, and worked for Motley Dairy.  He was of the Baptist Faith; and he loved trains, coon hunting, fishing, Dodge Trucks, motorcycles, Country Music, and his beloved dogs, "Ace" and "Bear."

He is survived by his wife, Tammy Leigh Bailess of the residence; three daughters, Kimberly Bailess of Lynchburg, Kelly Bailess of Lynchburg, and Amanda Hogan and husband, Matthew of Gretna; one brother, Donnie Fowler and wife, Michelle of Chatham; and five grandchildren, Tucker Bailess (Kelsi), Ray Durham, Noah Durham, Emma Hogan, and Steven Hogan.

Private memorial services will take place at a later date.

Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.