Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.- Matthew 11:28
Brother James Bailey of Oakland, California, transitioned to be with our Lord and Savior early Wednesday morning, February 5, 2020, at Sunset Regional Medical Center in Oakland, CA. James Bailey was born December 27, 1927, to Oliver and Mae Bell (Hunter) Bailey in Fairview, AR. It was then God saw fit to bless the world with the man, the myth, and the legend that would become known affectionately as Jack Bailey. He accepted Christ at a young age at Centerpoint AME, Sparkman, AR and he attended Oak Grove AME in Arkadelphia, AR. He was a faithful member and attended various events at Bible Fellowship Baptist Church in Oakland, CA.
James Bailey attended school as a child at Centerpoint AME during an era in which integrated schools were a myth. He left Arkansas in search of a better life, where the color of skin was not a deterrent in his pursuit of happiness. Jack was a hard worker, jack of all trades, and his most pleasant memories were when Jack worked as a welder in Oakland, CA, for years. He never married nor had children; his nieces and nephews were his children. You would often find Jack just laughing, talking, and sharing memories with nieces and nephews at family gatherings. Jack was a fun-loving guy who never met a stranger and made many friends throughout his lifetime. Where there was a gathering, you could count on Jack being part of the crowd. There was never a dull moment when he was around. Jack loved to dress; dancing was his passion, and his deep, robust voice just captivated anyone who heard him speak. He was a sophisticated smooth operator, and if you ever met him, you never forgot him. Jack's outgoing personality put a smile on many faces. His beautiful blue eyes and smile left a great impression on others. His caring for others caused him to be loved by many.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his three brothers Henry Bailey, Emery Bailey, and Simmie Bailey and his five sisters Mauzee Perry, Birdie Smith, Allie Lee Bailey Butler, Martha E. Bailey Coleman, and Ruby J. Dickerson. He was the youngest son and had a unique connection with each one of them; he often testified about God's favor. If he could speak to us right now, he would say, "Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there; I did not die." I was blessed to have 92 years on earth, and I'm with my Father in heaven now. I am the soft stars that shine at night. The legacy continues as he leaves numerous nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends. Though his transition leaves sorrow and void, yet mingled with grief are the smiles, the laughter, and the memories. We will miss him but we are happy he woke up in glory. We will see him again, and what a day that will be !!!
Services are under the direction of Mitchell Funeral Home in Arkadelphia, AR. The funeral service will be held at Macedonia Baptist Church in Sparkman, AR where Rev. J.L. Newborn is Pastor on Friday, February 21, 2020, at 12 noon. Burial and final resting place will be at Centerpoint Cemetery in Sparkman, AR.
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