Betty Anita Bailey

Betty Anita Bailey passed away peacefully on August 5, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 73. Born on January 16, 1951, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, she lived life in her own way and left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

Betty's life was characterized by her dedication to service and education. She joined the United States Navy and devoted 20 years of service, a testament to her patriotism and strength of character. Following her military career, Betty's passion for learning and teaching led her to the University of South Carolina Aiken, where she studied Education. Her enthusiasm for learning was a gift she shared with countless students over a decade as a history and psychology teacher at Harlem High School in Harlem, GA.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Joseph “TJ” Bailey. Their love story was one for the ages and she remained devoted to him. She is survived by a loving and grateful family: her children, James Terrell (Kim) of Bulverde, TX, Stacey Hood (Guerry) of Houston, TX, and Jennifer Long of Dallas, GA; her grandchildren: Brent Terrell, Hannah Terrell, Nicholas Terrell, Sabrena Long, Jacob Long, Cooper Terrell, and Olive Hood; her brother James “Rusty” Ezzell; her niece Ashleigh Randolph (Ben); sister-in-law Rita Elrod and nephew-in-law Nathan Bailey; numerous friends and her furry children, Molly and Tabby. Each of them carries forward a piece of Betty's legacy, shaped by her wisdom, warmth, and nurturing spirit.

Betty also had many interests that brought her continued joy and fulfillment. She was an avid reader, lover of musicals and all things Disney, along with arts/crafts such as cross-stitching and ceramics. Betty loved being involved, volunteering her time, and living her best life at Emerald Oaks Retirement Resort.

Betty's life was a testament to the power of positivity, the importance of family, and the impact of a life well-lived. Her memory will be cherished and celebrated by all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Betty’s family would like to thank the people at First Light Home Care, Trinity Hospice, Bexar Care Home Health and Stone Oak Methodist Hospital for all the wonderful care they provided Betty to make her final days caring and comfortable. They would also like to thank everyone in the Emerald Oaks community for their loving support, with a grateful shout out to Sonny and Dawn for taking such great care of Molly when Betty was unable to.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM Sunday, August 11, 2024, at Emerald Oaks Retirement Resort, 20302 Bulverde Road, San Antonio, Texas 78259. Betty will be cremated and buried at sea at a later date per Navy tradition.