John E. Bailey

John E. Bailey Sr., 77, of Huber Heights, died Friday, April 24, 2020, at Vancrest of New Carlisle surrounded by love. He was born July 15, 1942, in Yellow Springs, OH. John was preceded in death by his Father and Mother, Everitt and Lurlene Bailey, his big Brother, Richard Bailey and a little Sister, Anita Bailey. John is survived by the love of his life, his “sweetheart”, his wife of 52 years, Betty Jane (Sigler) Bailey; four sons, John (Mila), Brian (Joanie), Randy (Sharon) and Michael (Robin). His Grandchildren who he loved dearly including eight Granddaughters; Ashli, Heather (Mikey), Sierra(Sam), Rachel (Ross), Lauren, Claire, Olivia and Charlotte, and four Grandsons; Ryan, Derrick, Darren and Zachary. Many nieces(including Shelly, whom he often thought of as the daughter he never had), nephews and friends along the way. John graduated from John Bryan High School in Yellow Springs in 1961. He also served in the Ohio National Guard(Army) for 6 years. He retired from International Harvester (Navistar) after 36 years of employment. John was actively involved in and proud of being a Mason. Being a member of Clark Lodge #101, Valley of Dayton AASR and Shawnee 237, Springfield Council #17 and Palestine Commandery #32. He loved hunting, fishing and the outdoors in general, usually taking two weeks during the summer to share this love with his sons in the mountains of West Virginia. He was also an avid knife collector, being a Lifetime Member of the Case Collectors Club. Special Thanks to Vancrest of New Carlisle and their exceptional staff for the compassionate care they gave John day in and day out. It may not have been home, but they made it the next closest thing. His remains are being cared for by Adkins Funeral Home in Enon, Ohio. Services will be held at a later date where there will be a gathering for a celebration of his life after the COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. In lieu of flowers, the Bailey family has requested that donations be made in John’s name to Special Wish Foundation (aspecialwishfoundation.org/donate) or Ronald McDonald House (rmhcdayton.org/donate) WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH AND WILL MISS YOU FOREVER AND A DAY!

John E. Bailey

July 15, 1942 - April 24, 2020