Bill Jackson Bailey

June 12, 1942 ~ July 14, 2024 (age 82)

Billy Jackson Bailey, 82, of Stephenville, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024. He is now pain-free and at peace with Jesus and his loved ones who preceded him.

Please join us to celebrate his life at Stephenville Funeral Home on Friday, July 19, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm for visitation, and 10:00 am on Saturday, July 20, 2024 for the funeral.

Bill was born in Big Spring, Texas, on June 12, 1942, to Charlie Jackson and Elva Ruth Bailey. He was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many. After briefly residing in Glen Rose in the late 1940s, he and his family settled in Stephenville.

Bill was actively involved in school activities, including cheerleading, band, and student council, all of which he adored wholeheartedly and would tell wonderful stories about to anyone who would listen. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America during high school and served as a counselor at Camp Billy Gibbons Boy Scout Camp for five years, mentoring young boys in life skills and relationships.

He graduated from Stephenville High School in May 1960 and pursued further education at Tarleton State University, majoring in pre-med. Bill cherished family memories of water skiing on Lake Leon with his children, siblings, and friends. He also enjoyed social events and family gatherings, often hosting youth groups in his home. Whether grilling for an RA bike-a-thon or racing armadillos at the 4th of July celebration, he was always there.

Bill was known for his stubbornness and quirky sense of humor; he never shied away from being a bit of a goofball, much to the delight of his family and friends. Even with these traits, he was deeply caring and devoted to his family.

In January 1960, he married Jerry Lou Bell, whom he shared a love for dancing with. Bill and Jerry dedicated countless hours to assisting residents of Summer Sky, Inc., a Texas drug and alcohol addiction treatment center, with transportation, mentoring, and building foundational relationships.

In the early 1970s, Bill relocated from Houston to Stephenville, where he co-owned and operated Taylor-Harbin LP Gas in Dublin, Texas, with his father. After many successful years, he transitioned to a career in real estate with Brooks Real Estate, achieving top sales status for several years.

He was a devout member and deacon of First Baptist Church, Stephenville, where he also sang in the choir. Bill served on the Stephenville City Council for many years and was instrumental in various city improvements.

Bill cherished spending time with his family. He is survived by his Daughter, Brandi Bailey of Stephenville, TX; Son, Jason Bailey and Wife Yesenia of Cypress, TX; Sister, Betty Moss of Wichita, KS; Grandchildren: Kennedale Boggs and husband Ben, Jordan French and husband Michael, Micah Bailey, Joci Tidey, Trinity Bailey; and great-granddaughter, Evangeline Boggs. Nieces: Renee Stevens and husband Michael of Lubbock, Tammy Tulk and husband Dana of Wichita, Kansas, and Amy Jokel and husband Don of Rock Springs, Wyoming; great-niece Samantha Daniel and son Zeppelin of Rock Springs, Wyoming; great-great-niece Makenzie Daniel of Bedford, Texas; great-nephew Zack Riley of New York City; great-niece Hannah Johns of Rock Springs, Wyoming, and great-nephew Brian Stevens of Lubbock, TX.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Jackson (Doc) Bailey (1992); his brother, Bob Bailey (2002); his wife, Jerry Lou Bailey (2013); and his mother, Elva Ruth Bailey (2019).