Thomas Francis Bailey

Thomas Francis Bailey, a devoted family man, accomplished professional, and dedicated community member, passed away on March 23, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and warmth. Born on January 19, 1942, in Idabel, Oklahoma, to his parents Thomas Jefferson Bailey and Lillie Frances Bailey, Thomas's life was characterized by his unwavering commitment to his loved ones and his fervent dedication to making a difference in his community.

After graduating from Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1960, Thomas embarked on a journey of service, joining the United States Air Force where he served honorably at George Air Force Base in Victorville, California, and Homestead Air Force Base in Homestead, Florida, from 1960 to 1964. Following his military service, Thomas pursued higher education at Southwest Texas State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences and his Master of Science in Health Professions.

Thomas's professional career spanned over four decades, during which he held various positions as Director of Business Services for several hospitals from 1975 to 2007. His dedication to his work was matched only by his passion for serving others beyond the confines of his professional duties.

Outside of work, Thomas generously volunteered his time and expertise to numerous clubs and organizations, including the Downtown Breakfast Optimist Club and the Baptist Credit Union, where he served on the Board of Directors and as Interim President. He was also actively involved in community initiatives at Parkhills Baptist Church, Daily Bread Ministries, and the Boy Scouts of America, where he shared his love for camping, mentoring, and fostering the growth of young minds alongside his two sons, Michael and David. His warmth, affability, and genuine interest in people endeared him to all who knew him, making him a beloved figure in his community.

A man of many talents and interests, Thomas found joy in playing musical instruments such as the guitar, ukulele, and harmonica. He had a deep appreciation for country music, amassing an extensive collection of cassette tapes and CDs over the years. His love for the outdoors led him to enjoy camping trips to Colorado and weekends spent at Canyon Lake, where he cherished moments shared with his family while indulging in simple pleasures like enjoying a coke and a candy bar at the local icehouse. He loved traveling to Oklahoma to spend cherished time with his sister, brother, and extended family.

Thomas was known for his innate ability to fix anything that was broken and for imparting his knowledge of auto repair to his sons. His infectious laughter, compassionate spirit, and unwavering faith were testaments to the depth of his character and the richness of his soul. He was devoted to his two daughters who loved him dearly. He referred to Karen as his “Nurse Karen” and to April as his “Sweet Pea.”

Proud of his heritage as a Native American Indian in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Thomas embraced his cultural identity with pride and reverence. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and resilience will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 61 years, Linda Kathryn Bailey of San Antonio, TX; daughters, Karen A. Watson and April D. Bailey of San Antonio, TX; sons, Michael T. Bailey and David L. Bailey (Sonia Bailey) of San Antonio, TX; grandchildren, Cameron S. Bailey (Sarah Bailey) of Kyle, TX, Tyler K. Watson of San Antonio, TX, Kelsey N. Tompkins (Charles Tompkins) of Haslet, TX, Ethan J. Bailey of San Antonio, TX, Emilee R. Bailey of San Antonio, TX, and Colby T. Watson of San Antonio, TX; great-granddaughters, Kinsley M. Tomkins of Haslet, TX, and Darlene J. Bailey of Kyle, TX; sister, Theresa A. Stevens (Elray F. Stevens) of Owasso, OK; brother, Donald R. Bailey (Jeannette Bailey) of Broken Arrow, OK; brothers-in-law, James UL Johnston (Cynthia Johnston) of Stillwater, OK, Jerry L. Johnston of Jenks, OK, and Larry A. Johnston (Molly Johnston) of Jenks, OK; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

Thomas Francis Bailey leaves behind a cherished legacy of love, laughter, and service. He will be deeply missed by his family and a multitude of friends whose lives he touched in profound and meaningful ways. Though he may have departed from this world, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

VISITATIONTUESDAY, APRIL 9, 20246:00 PM – 8:00 PMPORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH

FUNERAL SERVICEWEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 202412:00 PMPARKHILLS BAPTIST CHURCH

INTERMENTWEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 20241:45 PMFORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

Senior Adult Pastor Cody Caywood will officiate. Pallbearers will be Don Bailey, Michael Bailey, David Bailey, Cameron Bailey, Tyler Watson, Ethan Bailey, Colby Watson and Charles Tompkins. The family would like to bestow the title of Honorary Pallbearer to Elray F. Stevens, John C. Zerda and to all of the men of The Transformers Sunday School class at Parkhills Baptist Church, for their kindness, devotion, and friendship. The family thanks The Enclave Rehabilitation Center and One Stone Oak Senior Living for their tender care, kindness and dedication to Mr. Bailey’s needs. A very special thank you to daughter, Karen Watson, for her nursing knowledge and skills, and her unwavering devotion to her Dad during his final months. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Diabetes Association, specifically for Type 1 Diabetes Research.