Levert Bailey Jr., affectionately known as “Bailey”, was born in Brent, Alabama to Levert Sr. and Lillie Bailey. Bailey obtained his primary and secondary education in the Cleveland Municipal School District, and in 1965 graduated from East Tech High School (Scarabs).
In 1967, Bailey married Joanne Lark and, like his father before him, worked for Alcoa. He later went on to serve his country in the United States Army. Bailey served from July 10, 1966, through July 9, 1969, when he fought in the Vietnam War. His ranking was “Sergeant”.
After his military service, Bailey worked for the United States Postal Services. He retired from the United States Postal Service with over thirty years of service.
Bailey was a fighter. He had many illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. Additionally, he had triple bypass surgery, suffered several strokes, and had brain surgery, amongst other things. However, you would never have known it because he didn’t allow these health issues to stop him.
Bailey enjoyed life and “he did it his way.” He was a provider for his home and enjoyed watching soap operas such as, “The Young and the Restless” and “General Hospital.” He could also be found kicking it at the local bars and hanging with his family and friends. He spent time hanging out with his sons, as well. He celebrated his 75th birthday at his son, Tony’s, bar. They celebrated their birthdays together, because their birthdays were 7 days apart. Bailey was known for his love of cars, beginning with the Cadillac Seville, and then later the Mercedes Benz.
Bailey was preceded in death by his parents, Levert Sr. and Lillie Bailey; brother, Willie Bailey; uncles, John Lee Bailey, Early Bailey and James Gates; aunts, Eleanor Bailey, Mary Jenkins and Vera Jenkins.
Bailey leaves to cherish his memory, his sons, Levert Bailey III, Anthony Berkley, and Timothy D. (Melanie) Bailey; 22 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; his brother, Jesse (Yolanda) Bailey; uncles, J.D. Bailey and James Bailey from Brent, Alabama; his best friend, Edward “ Butch” Calloway, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.