NORTH BENNINGTON, Vt. — Jason Taylor Baumes, 30, of North Bennington, Vt., passed away on September 24, 2017. 

Jay was a kind, gentle and loyal son, brother and friend. He was born on February 28, 1987, in Albany, N.Y., to Alan Baumes and Nancy Taylor Baumes, and he has four siblings, Brad Baumes, Eric Baumes, Eileen Gilmartin and Amy Lamitie. 

Jason and his little brother Brad grew up together in Grafton, N.Y. Jason balanced his quick wit and keen intelligence with humility, patience, and love, all of which he shared with those of us who were lucky enough to know him. His passions ranged from studying history to brewing beer, playing golf with friends, hiking, and playing music. Until recently, he worked at the South Street Cafe in Bennington, Vt., where he could always be seen with a cup of coffee in hand, deep in conversation with regulars and newcomers alike. Jay was easy to befriend, and to do so was to gain a lifelong ally. 

There is not enough space here to list everyone in his intimate circle of friends and family, but he would want each and every one of you to know how much he loved you, and if he could say so, how much he will miss you. Jay felt little attachment to material things, but his relationships were precious to him. 

Funeral notice: There will be no formal service, but a celebration of Jason's life will be held at the South Street Cafe in Bennington on Sunday, October 1, 2017. All those who knew Jay are welcome to stop by any time between 5 and 8 p.m.