James Arthur Bailey

James A. Bailey, age 85, Erwin, passed away on Friday evening, May 19, 2023, at the Erwin Health Care Center. He was a lifelong resident of Erwin and son of the late Mark and Grace Shell Bailey.

James retired from Erwin Motors where he worked in the body shop for many years. He was of the Freewill Baptist Faith. James was a hard-working man who loved and cherished his family. He enjoyed spending time with his granddaughters, admiring older cars, small engine repair and auto racing.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-two years, Priscilla Faye Chandler Bailey on November 21, 2018; two sisters: Gladys Fraiser and Dollie Gilbert; three brothers: Junior Bailey, Harland Bailey, and Virgil Bailey.

He is survived by his only son, James D. “Doc” Bailey of Erwin; his two granddaughters: Kara Nicole Bailey and Sara Grace Bailey, both of Erwin; sister, Blanche Blankenship; three brothers: Verlin Bailey, Ted Bailey and Ebb Bailey, all of Erwin; several nieces and nephews also survive.

The Bailey family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home chapel. Reverend Karl Gasser will officiate the 7:00 p.m. funeral service. Committal will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday in the Evergreen Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Tony Bailey, Eddie Bailey, Doug Bailey, Jeff Bailey, Paul Green and Jason Harris. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Erwin Fire Department. Everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery by 10:50 a.m. Thursday.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Bailey family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Bailey family. (423) 743-1380.

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