Barbara J. Bailey

August 5, 1939 – March 25, 2022

Preceded in death by her husband of 54 years the late DeForrest Wayne Bailey. Barbara was a devoted wife and beloved mother and has gone home to be with our Lord on March 25, 2022. Barbara was a long-time resident of the Tampa Bay area and of the Christian faith.

Barbara was a larger- than- life character. Her big shining personality lit up a room when she entered. She had a loud voice, a warm smile, and a contagious laugh. She loved people and had an optimistic love of life. Her energy was boundless. She was devoted to her family, to her friends, to her clients, and to God. Serving and helping others gave her great joy, whether it was in taking care of her family, or finding a home for a client. She also loved music, singing, and dancing, and if a good dancing tune was playing you can be sure she’d be dancing to it and persuading others to join in as well.

Barbara was an executive realtor for many years in the Tampa area. She loved the real estate industry, and her compassion and love for helping people enabled her to become a very successful businesswoman.

Barbara was born in Chattanooga, TN, and she was proud of her Tennessee heritage. Her southern roots reflected in her cooking. She was an excellent cook. She loved the country life and loved all animals, especially horses. For a good number of years, prior to her getting involved in real estate, she showed Paso Fino horses and made the front page of the newspaper on multiple occasions.

Barbara was loved by everyone and will be greatly missed, but she leaves behind a far-reaching legacy for generations to come.

~Barbara’s Surviving Family Tree~

Survived by her children & families:

Son; Richard (Susan) Bailey – Seffner, Florida

Grandchild; Valerie (Nathan) Morales & Great-Grandchildren; Mason & Gavin Morales

Grandchild; Jeffrey (Sarah) Bailey & Great-Grandchildren; Hannah & Juliet Bailey

Daughter; Becky (Bill) Ferguson – Newport News, Virginia

Grandchild; Matthew (Amber) Ferguson & Great-Grandchildren; Maci, Molli & Madi

Grandchild; Jason (Noemi) Ferguson & Great-Grandchild; Elsie

Grandchild; Jeremy (Erin) Ferguson

Son; Kenny (Linda) Bailey – Port Charlotte, Florida

Grandchild; Bryan Bailey

Grandchild; Nicole (Chad) Weaver

Son; Dennis (Robyn) Bailey – Lakeland, Florida

Grandchild; Amanda Bailey & Great-Grandchild; Rowan

Son; DeForrest Bailey – Miami, Florida

Son; Forrest (Linda) Bailey – Gulfport, Florida

Grandchild; Raquel (Terry) Wickman & Great-Grandchild; Tessa

Our family is so thankful for all those that reached out to us during this time with special thoughts and prayers. We would also like to thank the staff at Port Charlotte Rehab and Tidewell Hospice for the loving care they provided Mom while she was there. We are blessed to have had such wonderful support. Though Barbara’s earthly journey has ended, we are rest assured that she has begun a new journey walking the streets of gold in heaven and abiding in a mansion Jesus has prepared just for her (John 14:2). She is busy singing and dancing with the angels. Save us a dance, Mom, until we meet again.

~Barbara Jean Bailey~

Rest in Peace