David "Doc" Earl Bailey

David Earl “Doc” Bailey, 92, of Pensacola, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

Doc was born on October 23, 1933, in Jay, FL, but spent much of his life in Pensacola, where he built a life defined by faith, family, hard work, and community.

A true entrepreneur, Doc founded Bailey’s Farmers Market in 1964. What began as a produce stand became a beloved Pensacola institution, where generations of families gathered for fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seasonal favorites, and Christmas trees. Doc was known for his tireless work ethic - the first to arrive and the last to leave, even well into his 80s. He took great pride not only in building the business, but in passing it down to his son, Don Bailey, ensuring that the legacy he created would continue.

Doc was personable, sharp, and endlessly outgoing. A gifted storyteller with quick wit, he could captivate a room and make anyone feel at ease. He loved to cut a rug, rarely missed an opportunity for laughter, and was often the life of the party. People were naturally drawn to him - not only for his humor, but for his kindness and steady presence.

When he wasn’t at the market, Doc was most at home on the water, playing tennis with his “Under the Hill” team, or at his greenhouse. A lifelong fisherman, he was seldom without a cast net in hand. He tended his greenhouse with patience and pride and developed a passion for propagating his favorite plants. He collected knives, cherished time with family, and remained deeply rooted in his faith-passionately devoted to his church and Bible study.

At the heart of Doc’s life was his 71-year marriage to his beloved wife, Billie Bailey. Their enduring partnership was a testament to their love, commitment, and shared faith. Together they built a family whose foundation rests firmly on the values he lived every day.

Doc is preceded in death by his son, David Bailey Jr.

Survivors include his wife, Billie Bailey; his daughter, Donna Pickert (widow of Doug Pickert) of Berkeley Lake, GA; his sons, Doug Bailey (Barbara) of Pensacola, FL and Don Bailey (Cindy) of Pensacola, FL; his grandchildren, Paige Britton (Taylor) of Dunwoody, GA and Jake Pickert (Kelly) of Pensacola, FL; and his great-grandchildren, Doc and Georgia Pickert, and Parker Britton.

Doc’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the business he built, and the countless lives he touched. His stories, laughter, and the worthy example he set for those he loved will be remembered for generations.

The family would like to thank Emerald Coast Hospice and the wonderful caregivers who took loving care of Doc: Deborah Gould, Mona Gray, Monique Barnes, Alexia Barnes, and Maria Boucher.

A Memorial Service will be held 2:00pm Friday, March 13, 2026, at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3400 Bayou Blvd., followed by a celebration of his life in the library. Livestream link for the Memorial Service: David "Doc" Bailey Memorial Service

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Kids House Inc., 3401 N 12th Ave, Pensacola, FL 32503 or to the charity of your choice.