Warren Stephen Bays, 71, of Terre Haute passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Wednesday, August 1, 2018.  He was born on October 14, 1946 in Brazil, Indiana to Warren Clifton Bays and Alma Louise (Loughner) Bays.  He attended Gerstmeyer High School in Terre Haute, Indiana.

Warren and his wife, Claire, founded Custom Lawn, Mower Shop,  Sweeping, Hauling Services in 1977.  He was an avid drag racer beginning in his teen years.  In 1987 he began following the NHRA circuit.  He has three national event runner ups and was #5 in Division 3 in 1992 in Super Gas.  Warren had a love for old cars, fishing, and Andy Griffith.  He was best known for his stories, he could tell a story that would leave you amazed or laughing hysterically.  He also had a great love for his family and his dog Chance whom he claimed was the best dog ever.

Warren was preceded in death by his parents and brothers John M.  Bays and David E. Bays.  He was also preceded in death by two grandsons, Aaron Bays and Aiden Bays.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Claire E. (Jeffries) Bays and his children Cale Bays (Kelly) Gayla Brown (Greg), Stephen Bays, Stephanie Crosby (Matt Wilson), and Samuel Bays (Katie).  His grandchildren include Torie Ambrose (Kenny Geiersbach) , Kylee (Bill) Carlin, Alexis (Cody) Manley, Corbin Crosby, Cassie Reyher, Sydney Bays, Paige Crosby, Brayden Blandford, Jace Bays, Genevieve Bays, and Adeline Bays.  He is also survived by his sister Rebecca L. Malone of Parker, Colorado, sisters-in-law Donna Bays and Vicky Bays, and several nieces and nephews.  Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 4, 2018 at DeBaun Springhill Chapel with Chaplain Steve Blaydes officiating.  Friends may call from 11 a.m. until service time.  Cremation will follow services.  For those who choose memorial contributions in his memory may be made to Kindred Hospice or Drag Racing Association of Women (DRAW).  Envelopes will be available.  Online condolences may be offered at www.debaunfuneralhomes.com