Dr. James Bailey

BAILEY

Dr. James L.



Jim Bailey was born March 21, 1930, to Irvin and Mildred Bailey in Tiffin, Ohio. He passed away on February 17, 2015, surrounded by his family at Jennings Center for Older Adults in Cleveland, Ohio. He formerly lived in Old Orchard in Toledo for many years.

Jim graduated from Tiffin Columbian High School, class of 1948, where he played the coronet in the marching band and music competitions. He received a BS degree from Heidelberg College in 1952 where he met and married Ruth Ellen Heyman after graduation. He earned an MS in 1954 and Ph.D. in 1958 from Michigan State University in mathematics. Jim and Ruth moved to Cleveland where he taught at Case Institute of Technology (now Case Western Reserve University). He was a professor of mathematics at the University of Toledo from 1963-1995 and awarded emeritus status in 1987. He enjoyed teaching and having an impact on student development in mathematics and engineering. Jim co-authored numerous scientific papers, primarily in the area of earthquake research. He also taught graduate courses at NASA in Cleveland during his tenure at UT.

Jim enjoyed bicycling, long walks, classical music, and special times at his cottage in Presque Isle, Michigan. While up north he delighted in cross country skiing, fishing, and sailing the Herreshoff sailboat he restored.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ruth Bailey; children, Melanie Mills (Tim), Laurie Weed (Garry), and Scott Bailey (Nonie); grandchildren, Katie, Lauren, Martha (Eric), Zachary, Sloane, Adelle, and Grace; great-grandchild, Alba; brother, Robert Bailey (Martha), and niece, Jennie Day. He will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, scholar, sailor, gentleman, and good friend.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Contributions in his name may be made to First Congregational Church on Collingwood Blvd. or Wildwood Preserve Metropark on Central Ave., both in Toledo.