James R. Bailey

James R. Bailey, 76, passed away unexpectedly on September 29, 2022, at his home in Dorset, Ohio.

Jim was born on May 24, 1946, in Ashtabula, Ohio, the son of Robert and Virginia (Gray) Bailey.

He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1964. He married the love of his life, Joyce (McCommons) Bailey on September 29, 1978, they shared forty-four wonderful years of marriage together.

Jim was a farmer first and foremost and owner of Bay-Lee-Dell Farms, where he milked cows up until 1993. He was one of the hardest working men around; he also worked for oil field companies from 1978-2019; he worked as a Well Tender for Ensearch Exploration, contracted with Bill Kinney, Big Sky and CES; as well as working for Praxair for twenty-five years doing specialty work.

He was a Volunteer Firefighter for Dorset Township, a member of the DDFA and former Dorset Township Trustee.

Jim enjoyed wintering with his wife in Arizona with trips to Alaska and Australia being highlights, spending time in the outdoors, riding ATV’s and was famous for his 4th of July picnic at the farm.  His true source of joy and happiness was spending time with his family.  He was so proud of his family and was an inspiration to each and every one of them.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Bailey, his beloved children: Kevin (Jessica) Bailey, David Bailey, Craig (Vanessa) Bailey, John (Jennifer Troy) Summers and Regina (Rick) Inman; his siblings: Rebecca (Al) Wintz and Jane (Jeff) Hinkle; his grandchildren: Jared Bailey, Trevor Bailey, Kala (Curtis) Gray, Sheneese (Josh) Kovats, Stone Starcher, Serenity Kincaid, Terry (Jamie) Woodin, Daran (Bethany) Woodin and Jessica (Brett) Powers. As well as eleven great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard (Joan) Bailey.

Funeral Services to Celebrate Jim’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 5, 2022, from 3:00p.m.-6:00p.m. at the Dorset Community Center, 2681 OH-193 in Dorset, Ohio.

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