James Henry Bailey was born on October 8, 1942 in Brownsville, Tennessee to the late James and Tessie Bailey. He departed this life on December 10, 2025 after a lengthy illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Mrs. Wilma Smith, and his step-daughter, Sherry Abernathy.

James, aka “Cook,” graduated from John Hay High School, joined the United States Airforce, where he received an honorable discharge for his service. James was then employed with the United States Postal Service, Ohio Aluminum, and, Alcoa/Howmet Aerospace the company from which he retired.

James “Cook” was the pit master when it came to cooking on the grill for his family! He also enjoyed yard work, keeping his lawn perfectly manicured. James particularly enjoyed shopping at the thrift store – especially on Mondays – that was half off day and he loved a good deal! He will be missed in so many ways by all who knew and loved him.

James leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Margaret; three children: Valerie Bailey, (Rancho Cucamonga, California), Anthony “Bob” Bailey, (Moreno Valley, California), Nicole (John) Smith, (Richmond, Virginia); three stepchildren: Kerry Strickland, Raymisha Strickland , (Cleveland, Ohio), Rameka Strickland, (Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio); one sister, Josephine (Preston) Whigham, (South Euclid, Ohio) and two brothers, Darrel Bailey, (South Euclid, Ohio) and John Bailey, (Cleveland, Ohio); one brother-in-law, Arthur Smith, nine grandchildren, fourteen great grand-children, two great, great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.