Lydia Irene Barton Bayer

Lydia Irene Barton Bayer, age 47 of Wirtz departed this life suddenly on Monday, March 14, 2016, in Franklin County, VA. She was born in Franklin County, PA on August 7, 1968 and spent her childhood with her adoptive parents, Melvin and Ruth Olive (Knaus) Barton in Franklin County, KS. On July 2, 1994, Lydia was united in marriage with Kevin Bayer, who called her his "Franklin County girl." Their marriage was blessed with three children, Barton, Amber, and Amanda. Lydia gave her life early to Jesus and was baptized into Christ as a young teenager. She was a model of steady faithfulness to God and was a constant encourager to her many friends. Lydia was a dedicated wife and homemaker, desiring to spend much of her time in her own home. She thoroughly enjoyed caring for her children and her many "critters," as well as the much-loved children she babysat. Lydia also spent many hours sewing and gardening. She felt a special connection and cared deeply for fellow adoptees and those with mental illness. Lydia was preceded in death by her parents. Left to mourn her passing are her husband; three children; birth mother, Marsha Stoops; sister, Anne Barton; half-brother, Kevin Stoops; half-sister, Elaine Huff; father- and mother-in-law, Kenneth and Lena Mae Bayer; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Teresa and Steve Flora, Curtis and Lera Bayer, Bonita and Leroy Bowerman, Cecil and Brandi Bayer, Rachel Bayer, Emma Lou and David Hege; several aunts and uncles and nieces and nephews; a host of cousins; and special friend, Dawna Argenbright. Funeral services will be conducted 10 a.m. Saturday at Oak Hill Old German Baptist Brethren Church with Elder Billy Boone and Elder Darrell Boyd officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Her family will receive friends 2-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Friday at Oak Hill Church. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.