James Russell Bailey born October 31, 1943 departed this life on Monday February 3, 2025 at the Greg & Noreen Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard, Kentucky being 81-years old.  James was born in Perry County, Kentucky the son of the late Arthur Bailey and the late Mary Osborne Bailey.  Other than his parents, James was also preceded in death by brothers, Eugene, Clifford, Charles and Ron; sisters, Marthalene Mitchell and Alta Campbell; life-long friends, Astor Shouse and Jerry Wyrick.

James as a founding member of the Black Diamond Street Rods Car Club, he was appointed the honor of Kentucky Colonel, was an avid U.K. Basketball fan always rooting on Big Blue.  James loved being outdoors and thoroughly enjoyed his time hunting & fishing.  James had an unmatched love for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as they definitely had him wrapped around their fingers.  James worked in the Automotive industry throughout his life and was a member of the Hazard First Baptist Church.

James Russell Bailey leaves the following relatives to cherish his memory: wife of 60-years, Brenda Davis-Bailey of Hazard, KY; daughter, Sherry Bailey-Lopez & Mark of Prestonsburg, KY; granddaughter, Angela Lopez-Coots & James of Lexington, KY; grandson, Michael Tyler Lopez & Amy of Hazard, KY; great-grandsons, Cameron B. Coots & Colton Brody Coots both of Lexington, KY and Asher Michael Lopez of Hazard, KY; life-long friend, Chester Stevens of Somerset, KY; also a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends survive.

Visitation for James Russell Bailey will be held on Friday February 7, 2025 at the Hazard First Baptist Church from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M.  Funeral Services will be held at 7:00 P.M. on Friday February 7, 2025 at the Hazard First Baptist Church with Pastor Tim Reynolds officiating.

Engle-Bowling Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.