Jerry T. Col Bailey

Col. Jerry T. Bailey, USAF, Ret. passed away at his home in San Antonio, Texas on April 12, 2017. He was surrounded by his children, Steve Bailey of New Orleans, Juli Pendergrass of Houston, and Amy Bailey of San Antonio, and his caregiver, Carly Mobel. Born on October 16, 1935 in Vero Beach, Florida, he was the son of Jack and Velma Bailey.

Jerry was the beloved husband of 55 years to Nancy Bailey, who passed away in 2012. He is survived by his three children; sons-in-law, Mark Blakeney and Keith Pendergrass; grandchildren, Anna and Sarah Pendergrass; brother-in-law, Philip Owens and his wife Cathy; sister-in-law, Dolly (Mary) Bailey; and 9 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Bo (Lamar) and Jim Bailey.

Jerry graduated from Vero Beach High School, received a B.S. degree from Stetson University, and earned an M.A. degree from Auburn University. After teaching Biology immediately following college, he quickly decided to pursue a different career path. He joined the United States Air Force as a navigator in 1960 and served in various capacities for 29 years. He was a Vietnam War veteran. During his military service, he and his family were stationed in California, Texas, Virginia, Alabama, and Germany. Jerry traveled extensively and visited over 25 countries. After retiring from the military, he worked for the State of Texas and Air Force Village.

He was an avid musician and actually attended college on a music scholarship. He played the piano and clarinet, sang in the church choir, and played in the bell choir. All his life he had a deep appreciation for classical music and was a strong supporter of the arts.

His caustic wit and stubborn exterior veiled a tremendous heart of gold. As a community volunteer, he worked with Therapy Animals, an organization that brings people and animals together for healing. He will be greatly missed by his family and his many friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

FRIDAY

MAY 5, 2017

1:00 P.M.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

404 N. ALAMO

A reception at the church will follow.

He will be buried in Florida alongside his wife, Nancy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the San Antonio Humane Society, 4804 Fredericksburg Rd., San Antonio, TX 78229, www.sahumane.org.