Billy Ray Bailey, 88, of Oakland, TN was born on February 2, 1936, in Dunklin County, MO and passed away on September 18, 2024, in Memphis, TN. He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Ann, his five children, Kim Cochran (Lee) of Long Beach, MS; Doug Bailey (Diane) of Bartlett, TN; Roland Bailey (Nadine) of Memphis, TN; Cindy Schmitz of Memphis, TN; Stephanie Kennedy (Billy) of Bolivar, TN; their mother Sally Bailey, and stepdaughter, Sande Lollis (Jeff) of San Diego, CA. Mr. Bailey was a devoted and doting grandfather with 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, with some step grands and greats added along the way. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Lucille Bailey, brothers Bond Bailey and Rick Bailey, and sister Joann Magurn.
Mr. Bailey retired from the Federal Aviation Administration in 1992 after 30 years as an electronics engineer to pursue his second career as an amazing and accomplished artist, working primarily in watercolor and oils. He earned recognition in numerous juried competitions and held signature memberships in multiple watercolor societies.
A legendary man of integrity with a sharp sense of humor and deep love for his family, he will forever be remembered in the hearts of those who knew him.
Visitation for family and friends will be September 30, 2024 from 3 pm to 4pm, followed immediately by a celebration of life and legacy service at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N. Germantown Rd. Bartlett, TN. A private interment service will be held at the West Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery at a later date.
