Erna M. Bayless was a professor of physical education at Westfield State College from 1943 until her retirement in 1968 at age 70. She was adviser of the Women’s Athletic Association and chair of the physical education department for women during her years at the college. 

Through her tireless efforts, the Women’s Athletic Association flourished as she developed a large program of athletic activities. She served as faculty adviser for activities such as basketball, bowling, swimming and tennis, and added dance, field hockey and softball to the program in 1946. 

In addition to having more than 20 hours of scheduled classes, Bayless voluntarily taught extra courses that students needed but could not get in the regular curriculum. Also active in many campus committees and professional organizations, her popularity with the students led them to dedicate the 1955 yearbook to her. And in 1976 Bayless was the first faculty member to receive the Presidential Citation at Westfield State’s Senior-Faculty Convention. 

Bayless, who grew up in Hyde Park, N.Y., taught for many years in the West Springfield and Springfield school systems prior to her years at Westfield State. She received a master’s degree from Springfield College in 1949. 

For nearly 50 years Bayless was an active member of the Church of Atonement in Westfield, and was a Red Cross volunteer for more than 10 years. She died in 1984 at the age of 86.