Jim Bailey 63, of Livermore, Kentucky passed away Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at U of L Health – Jewish Hospital in Louisville. James Jack Bailey, Jr. was born October 10, 1960 in Indianapolis, Indiana to James Jack and Annatta Marie Bowman Bailey, was married to the former Kerry Anne Sallee on August 5, 1983, and was known affectionately as Jim, Jimmy or Pap to his friends and family. Jim’s zest for life and his infectious smile left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His life was one marked by devotion to his family, a passion for mentoring young athletes, and a love for the great outdoors.
Jim’s professional life was dedicated to the Boilermakers Local #40 of Elizabethtown, from which he retired after years of hard work and commitment. Where he was also known as ‘Beetle Bailey’ to his co-workers. His colleagues respected him for his integrity and teamwork, and his absence will be deeply felt within the community he helped to build and support.
Beyond work, Jim’s heart lay in the realm of sports and nature. He took immense pleasure in coaching the neighborhood kids in t-ball, baseball, and basketball. His coaching was less about the games and more about the life lessons he imparted to his young players: teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Jim’s legacy lives on in the fields and courts where he spent countless hours mentoring the youth.
Jim was a member of the Baptist faith and also found peace and joy in the great outdoors, whether he was camping under the stars or exploring new trails. His love for traveling took him to many beautiful places, but more importantly, it brought him closer to the people he loved. His family and friends will fondly remember his stories around the campfire and his unwavering readiness for the next adventure.
Jim’s laughter, wisdom, and gentle spirit will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy is not just in the memories he leaves behind, but in the impact he had on his community and the love he shared with his family.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Bailey.
Jim is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kerry Bailey; two sons, Heath Bailey of Livermore and Blaine Bailey of Atlanta; four grandchildren, Brianna Abney, Jordan Bailey, Jase Owens, and Kieren Owens; his mother, Annatta Bailey of Sacramento; and two sisters, Kim Miller (Wendell) and Tari Bailey both of Sacramento.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, March 8, 2024 at Muster Funeral Homes, Livermore Chapel. Burial will be in Green River Memorial Gardens in Livermore. Friends may visit with Jim’s family from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Thursday and from 9:00 A.M. until 10:00 A.M. Friday at Musters in Livermore. Boilermaker services will be held at 7:00 P.M. Thursday at Musters in Livermore.
The Jim Bailey family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to McLean County Youth Baseball, Inc; C/O Eric Coffman; 975 Kentucky 1587; Calhoun, Kentucky 42327.
Jim’s services will be streamed live on musterfuneralhomes.com at 10:00 A.M. Friday.
Share your memories and photos of Jim at musterfuneralhomes.com.