Athens — BAYLESS, John Walker, banker; born Jonesboro, Tenn., July 5, 1854; English and Irish descent; son of Jesse M. and Susannah (Walker) Bayless; graduated from Grant University, Chattanooga, Tenn., with a degree of A.B.; became a merchant in early life; former mayor of Athens, Tenn., and also one time member of the board of aldermen of that city; now president of Athens Bank and Trust Co.; manager and president of Bayless Hardware Co.; married Agnes Byington Sept. 13, 1881; Democrat.