Jonathan Bailey

On Saturday, July 8, 2017, Jonathan Bailey's existence here on earth came to an end and he began his eternal life with the Lord in Heaven. He died while enjoying a beautiful day with friends on Percy Priest Lake in Antioch, Tenn., while looking forward to his trip home to Midland on Sunday to visit family and friends.

Jon was born Dec. 17, 1987, in Midland to Eldon and Katie Bailey. He grew up in Midland and lived there for the majority of his life, with the exception of his college years at Grand Valley State University and Columbia College in Chicago. One of his most rewarding accomplishments was graduating summa cum laude from Northwood University with his bachelor in business administration in April 2017. He and his faithful, furry, best friend, Coda, recently moved to Nashville to begin the next stage of his life, with the love of his life, Rachel Harrison.

Jon touched many people through his music and his infectious personality. He was fulfilling his calling here on earth when he was singing, playing his piano, and creating music. Many of his songs were powerful and deeply personal and he will always be remembered through them. He also used his musical talents to entertain and make people smile, and he will be remembered just as much for his light-heartedness and ability to brighten people's days.

Jon was a natural born athlete who participated in sports throughout school. More recently he spent many nights playing softball and volleyball around town, which he loved because of all the wonderful friends he made and the camaraderie they shared.

Jon's support group of friends and family meant the world to him. He was genuine, thoughtful and caring, and loved to see those around him succeed in life. He took pride in his accomplishments and loved sharing them with others.

He was a loving son, great brother, caring friend, and "the best 'Uncie' Jon ever" if you ask his nephew, Christian. He was also a giant pain in the ass, but everyone will likely forgive him for that.

Jon meant so very much to all of us and he will be missed more than words can express. He will always be loved and memories of him will be with us forever.

A visitation and memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 15 2017 at Midland Nazarene Church, 5700 Jefferson Ave., Midland. Visitation hours will be from 9-11 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m.

Contributions to his memory can be made to: 1016 Recovery Network, 1016 Eastman Ave., Midland, 48640 or The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center, 2200 N. Dort Hwy, Flint, MI 48506

Condolences to the family can be sent to Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Directors, 1200 W. Wheeler St., Midland 48640.

Jon is survived by his loving and supportive mother, Katie Bailey; brothers, Dr. Benjamin Bailey (Dr. Ashly Bailey), Dr. Brian Bailey, Dr. Brent Bailey (Sue) of Colorado and Bill Bailey (Becky) of Arizona; nephews and nieces, Christian, Bodhi, Kasey, Sam, Joshua, Briana, Jessica and Michelle; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Jon was preceded in death by his loving father, Dr. Eldon Bailey; maternal grandparents, Leonard and Mary Jane Samson; and paternal grandparents, Lenwood Bailey and Eleanor Chase Bailey.