On October 5, 2021, Jim Bailey was welcomed into his heavenly home surrounded by his loving family.
Jim attended Susan Moore and Cleveland High School before graduating from Bessemer High School. He served in the Navy Reserves and met the love of his life when his best friend introduced him to his wife’s cousin. It was love at first sight. They married young and celebrated 62 years in December of 2020, showing their three daughters the perfect example of love and marriage. They worked together, went into a car business, and achieved their dreams with Select Car Corner, City Star Sales, and Showcase Cars. In addition, Jim promoted education and leadership through the Alabama Dealers Association and served as Director and President.
Jim loved his family and adored his girls with all his heart. He loved to play checkers, fish, work in his garden, and loved to tell stories. He was a great storyteller and an even better debater. He was strict, but he was also loving and generous. He will be missed, but we know we will see him again.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Earnie and Mary Bailey, of Oneonta, Al; his two brothers, Andyle and James Allen Bailey; his sisters, Waldene Reeves and Betty Killian.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jane Bailey; his children Pam Files (Randy), Tina Bailey, Carla Nielson (Jon); sister, Mary Ann Bass; three grandchildren, Ryan Files (Christen), Bailey Files, Stuart Nelson, and one great-grandson, Eli Files.
A funeral for Jim took place at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, October 8, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., with a visitation held one hour prior to the service. Burial was immediately following the chapel service at Jefferson Memorial’s adjoining cemetery. Pastor James Long presided over the service.