Bea Evelyn Carlyss

Beatrice (Bea) Evelyn (Baumann) Carlyss, 80, of Bloomington, Indiana, peacefully passed in the early morning of Monday, September 5th, 2022. Bea displayed courage and dignity during her recent battle with cancer, and, thanks to her considerable faith, there is comfort in knowing that Bea is now at home in heaven. Bea was born in Flushing, New York on January 3rd, 1942, as the only child of Marc and Evelyn (Gindrat) Baumann. While spending much of her childhood in Queens, Bea also spent a few early years in Tramelan, Switzerland. Learning French at an early age and connecting with her Swiss family were appreciated by Bea throughout her life. To the delight of her grandchildren, Bea also could recall her New York City accent on demand. After graduating from Queens College, Bea began working for a law firm in New York City. During this time, Bea was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church, and it was at the church that Bea met her future husband, Gerald (Gerry) Carlyss. Bea and Gerry were married on August 28th, 1965, and began a life full of adventure, music and travel. Gerry’s positions with the Cincinnati and Philadelphia Orchestras provided opportunities for travel around the globe and created many memories for the loving couple. Bea and Gerry eventually welcomed the arrival of two daughters, Michele and Cheryl. Travel and adventures now included summers boating and waterskiing on Lake George; concerts in Saratoga, Philadelphia and New York; a family trip back to Switzerland; weekends at the New Jersey shore; visiting family in Canada; and other numerous gatherings with family members and dear friends. After moving to Bloomington, Bea began a career in the Indiana University School of Music. She took great joy in shepherding many fresh-faced freshmen through their collegiate years and seeing them become successful graduates. Bea also was an active volunteer with the International Harp Competition. She served dutifully as the Board of Directors’ Secretary for many years. Bea was also passionate about her faith and giving back to her community. In New Jersey, she taught children’s groups at church and was the leader of many summer vacation-Bible schools. After moving to Bloomington, Bea was a member of First United Methodist Church, and a participant in United Women in Faith. This faith-group focuses on programs to support spiritual growth and faithful service, including supporting missions locally and around the world, and working for justice through service and advocacy. Bea was loving and supportive to her family throughout her life. In her later years, she enjoyed attending the numerous sporting and musical events involving her grandchildren. Bea lived a full and wonderful life, and she made the lives of those she touched a little brighter. Her memories and grace will live on through those fortunate enough to have known her. Bea is survived by her husband Gerald Carlyss; daughters Michele (Dave) Conner, and Cheryl (Steven) Hinds; and Grandchildren Michael Conner, Justin Conner, Lauren Conner, Dayton Hinds, and Taryn Hinds. She was preceded in death by parents Marc and Evelyn Baumann. A visitation will be held at Day and Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home (4150 E. 3rd St. Bloomington, IN 47401) on Tuesday, September 13th, 2022 from 10am-12pm. A funeral service will be held at 12pm and will be officiated by Pastor John Robertson. A private family burial will follow at Valhalla Memory Gardens. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.DayDeremiahFrye.com for the Carlyss family.