Gwendolyn F. Bay, age 79, of Dayton, formerly of New Bremen, died on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 11:42 A.M. at the Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton after a period of declining health.       She was born on May 12, 1945 in Celina, Ohio, the daughter of the late Russell B. and Viola F. (Suhr) Hines. On October 25, 1969, she married Robert P. Bay, and together they shared 37 years of marriage before his death on November 9, 2006.

Gwen is survived by her children: Lee Ann (Steve) Geisler of Vandalia, Michael Bay of St. Marys, and Christopher Bay of Vandalia; her son in-law, Jerry (Jackie) Holman of Sidney, her three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and her brother Larry (Gracie) Hines of West Virginia.

Along with her parents and husband, Gwendolyn was preceded in death by her daughter Amy Holman, her daughter in-law Vicki Bay, and her siblings: Joyce Hines, Jim (Phyllis) Hines, and Marshall (Diana) Hines.

Gwendolyn was a graduate of Celina High School. She had worked for over 25 years for Crown Equipment Corp. in New Bremen in assembly, first in Plant 1 and later over in Ft. Loramie, and was a member of the 25 Year Club. Gwen and Bob had a passion for traveling and took countless trips, but their favorite trips were the cruises they took to Alaska. Gwen was most happy when she was surrounded by her family, and she loved the time that they spent together. Taking family vacations, spending Christmas time together, and holding cookie baking marathons were all very special to her.

Private family graveside services and inurnment will be held at a later date in the German Protestant Cemetery in New Bremen.

Memorial contributions in memory of Gwendolyn can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (6520 N. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309) or to the Lupus Foundation of America (2121 K Street NW; Suite 200, Washington, DC 20037).

Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home in New Bremen is assisting the family with arrangements, and condolences and memories can be shared with the Bay family online at www.gilberghartwigfh.com.