James Milton "Jim" Bailey

James Milton "Jim" Bailey obituary, Lexington, KY

James Milton "Jim" Bailey

James Bailey Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Care Cremation & Funeral Service - Eastland Drive on Jun. 5, 2024.

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James "Jim" Milton Bailey passed away at his home in Lexington, Kentucky on June 3, 2024. Jim was born on September 1, 1950, in Waterloo, Iowa. He was the son of Gerald and Maxine Bailey. Jim later moved to Lexington, Kentucky and was a graduate of Tates Creek High School. Jim started his career as an Auto Mechanic at Tates Creek Phillips 66 and Don Jacobs Oldsmobile. In 1985 Jim and his partner, Duane Fuller, became the owners of and started Complete Automotive Repair in Lexington. Their business ran for 33 years until their retirement.

Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Jim was married to his wife, Debbie Bailey, for 41 years. They share one son, Dusty Bailey (wife-Melissa); and three grandchildren-Emerson, Riley & Adalynn Bailey. Jim has two sisters: Carol Pelfrey and Dawn Lilly (husband-Steve). Jim's brother, Bruce Bailey predeceased him (wife-Nancye).

Jim enjoyed time on his boats and spending time at the lake. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting and had many friends. He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends. Jim was a member of Beaumont Presbyterian Church in Lexington, Kentucky.

A Celebration of Life ceremony at his home will be forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

Care Cremation and Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with final care.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James "Jim", please visit our Tree Store.

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Sign James Bailey's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 14, 2025

Riley Bailey posted to the memorial.

June 8, 2024

Duane "Bush" Fuller posted to the memorial.

June 8, 2024

Jayme Ware posted to the memorial.

Riley Bailey

January 14, 2025

we would go to the lake every summer and fishing

Duane "Bush" Fuller

June 8, 2024

Over the years we've heard the phrase, "He's my brother by a different mother." For me that was my amazing friend Jim. We met at Don Jacobs Oldsmobile in 1974 working as automotive technicians. From that day on our adventures were never ending, ranging from white water rafting the Gauley River in West Virginia, backpacking in several locations, hunting, fishing, camping, just to name a few. Damn we had fun; and the stories, Wow! Thank you Jim, for the awesome memories.
We both became entrepreneurs; first as Mac Tool dealers then later on February 18th 1985 we opened Complete Automotive Repair, Inc. and after 33 years in business together, we sold the business and retired. Our times together diminished but the fun didn't. Any time we got together with Jim, Debbie, and their family we were always treated as one of them. Our kids would introduce Jim and Debbie as; "They are our Mom and Dad two".
I thank God for bringing Jim and me together and hope I will be allowed to be with him again. Over the years Jim has, unknowingly, taught me to be a better person in so many ways. I couldn't have asked for a better mentor of life.
Jim and I always had each other to help hash out our personal troubles or to lend a shoulder to cry on. This time I was at a loss, not knowing what to do or how to help him in his time of need. I am sorry Jim; please know that Debbie and the rest of your wonderful family can always count on our family's love and care.
I will forever miss you "My brother by a different mother."

Jayme Ware

June 8, 2024

Dearest Debbie and Family, Jim was truly one of the friendliest neighbors on our street! He always had a wave when I drove by, or a kind word when I walked my dog past your home. It was obvious he was a fun person and I'm so sorry for his passing and your tremendous loss. Best, Jayme Ware and Mitch Coyle

Jay and Cheryl Buffin

June 7, 2024

Dawn and Steve
prayers for your family and friends through this time. So sorry to hear.
Jay and Cheryl Buffin

Donnie Laskey

June 6, 2024

I worked with Jim for over 10 years , he was a good man and will be greatly missed . Over the years he always checked in on me to see how I was doing . A good boss and a good friend . My heartfelt condolences to his friends and family for the loss of such a great person .

Dawn Fuller McClure

June 6, 2024

My heart is so broken for the Bailey Family, friends and our families loss of Papa Jim (my Dad´s Best Friend of 50 years). Papa Jim was such a great man and I will always remember the camping, houseboat and lake trips we all took with him and his awesome family that we have always called our family. Papa Jim had a huge heart and loved everyone. I will never forget his laugh as it was so contagious and would make your day brighter. Prayers for peace and Gods comfort for all who loved Jim and may the memories you had with him be a reminder of the special person he was and always will be in your heart.

Harold/Brenda Wilkerson

June 6, 2024

We welcomed Jim to our family when he married our niece, Debbie. Over the years we have shared many family gatherings and he will certainly be missed. We always found Jim to be a very genuine person. Prayers for the family.

Frank Stobaugh

June 6, 2024

I met Jim through my brother in law Duane, Jim was a great man. Debbie and family so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for comfort and peace.
Frank Stobaugh

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Sign James Bailey's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 14, 2025

Riley Bailey posted to the memorial.

June 8, 2024

Duane "Bush" Fuller posted to the memorial.

June 8, 2024

Jayme Ware posted to the memorial.