Jery Bailey

Jerold Eugene "Jery" Bailey, 82, passed away surrounded by his family on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Reflections Living Center in Dodge City, Kansas. He was born on July 14, 1943 to Marjorie Frances (Walters) and Andrew William Bailey in Sublette, Kansas. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, teacher, and servant-leader, Jery was a lifelong resident and pillar of the Sublette, Kansas community. He lived a life marked by faith, service, passion, and unwavering love for his family. Born and raised in Sublette, Jery was one of four sons raised by Marjorie Bailey, whom he adored. He was especially close to his mother and often recalled the nightly Bible readings she shared with him and his brothers-Jimy, Rony, and Royce. Summers at church camp in Ashland, Kansas left a lasting impression on Jery's young heart, where his early love for Christ took root. Jery was baptized after one of those memorable camp sessions, a commitment to his faith that would guide him throughout his life. A standout athlete at Sublette High School, Jery's high school years were highlighted by his part on the famed "Band of Brothers" undefeated football team. As a fierce defensive back, Jery led the team with over 100 tackles in his senior season. His senior class trip to New Orleans was one for the books-most notably when he met Hall of Fame baseball legend Ted Williams. Though he received college football offers, Jery chose academics, graduating from Emporia State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. While working a summer job after college, fate introduced Jery to the love of his life, Elizabeth Jane Morgan. A spontaneous compliment on his car led to a whirlwind romance, a wedding in Las Vegas, and a lifelong partnership rooted in devotion and humor. The couple began their life together in Ulysses, Kansas before settling in Sublette, where they raised their three daughters: Christi, Becky, and Traci. Jery devoted 42 years of his life to education, teaching English and Geography at Sublette High School. He was a tough but fair teacher-respected by all and remembered fondly by generations of students. Letters of thanks and stories of his influence poured in long after graduation, a testament to the profound impact he had on young lives. He also coached multiple sports, drove a school bus, served as the first curriculum coordinator for USD 374, and was honored with the Jaycee's Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award by the University of Kansas. In 2006, he was inducted into the Sublette Wall of Honor-an honor he shared with his brother, Jimy. Summers were never idle for Jery; he ran his own business, Jery Bailey Painting, and could often be found working alongside community members or even his daughters. After retiring from teaching, Jery continued to serve-this time as Emergency Management Manager, playing a crucial role during the devastating 2006 ice storm. In 2011, the people of Sublette wrote his name onto the ballot and elected him Mayor-a role he served faithfully for two terms until 2018. Jery's service extended far beyond government and education. His faith was the cornerstone of his life. A dedicated member of the Sublette Christian Church, he served as both a Deacon and an Elder, and was always ready to step in-whether giving a sermon, officiating a funeral, or helping wherever needed. He led by quiet example, never seeking recognition, only opportunities to help. Jery loved painting, reading, fishing, playing croquet and cards with family, and traveling-especially to Colorado with the ones he loved most. But of all his roles, being "Grandpa Jery" was perhaps his favorite. He cherished living in the same town as many of his grandchildren and poured his love, stories, and time into their lives. His legacy lives on in them, in his students, and in the town he helped shape. Jery is survived by his wife, Jane; his daughters, Christine Ann Interman, Rebecca Sue Evinger, and Traci Lynn Parr; his beloved grandchildren, Clint, Sarah, Daniel, Tregan, and Ashlee; his great-grandchildren, Benny and Carson; his brothers, Jimy and Royce; his sons-in-law, Jeff and Cody; and a wide circle of family, friends, former students, and community members who were touched by his life. Jery is preceded in death by his parents, Andy and Marjorie Bailey; and brother, Ronald Bailey. Visitation will be from 1:00 until 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at Weeks Family Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 24th, 2025 at Sublette Christian Church with interment at the Haskell County Cemetery following the service. Memorial Contributions can be made out to the Sublette Christian Church, or Hospice of the Prairie, in care of Weeks Family Funeral Home, PO Box 1200, Sublette, KS 67877.