James Grimes Bailey, Jr.

James Bailey, beloved husband, father, son, uncle, brother, GGpa, and friend, left his family on Earth and went home to his Father in Heaven on May 7th, 2026.

Memorial services will be at 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, May 13th, at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, in the chapel, with Jeff Booth officiating. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers, Amarillo, Texas.

James was born on June 2, 1940, to James Grimes Bailey and Mildred Claire Doerfler in Amarillo, Texas. James graduated from Palo Duro High School in 1958. He worked for A to Z Tire and Great Western Directory for a total of 46 years before retiring.

He is survived by his wife, Reba Bailey; Daughters Vickie Merrill (Tim Merrill), Valarie Olson (Joel Olson), and Regina OQuin; Granddaughter Jennifer Merrill Vinyard (Justin Kite); Great-Grandchildren Philip Vinyard III, Ashlyn Vinyard, Ava Merrill, Sydney Vinyard, and Gavin Merrill; and siblings Darlene Voss, Christine Hutsell, and Ginger Parks

James was no stranger to hard work, as he enjoyed working outdoors and in his yard. He also remained an avid gym goer into his later years, taking joy in staying active and visiting with friends during his workouts. He was also a dedicated Christian who often recited scripture, truly lived his life for Jesus, and was a prominent, longstanding member of the Christian Church of God. James enjoyed telling jokes, often laughing his way through the punch line, and loved to make others smile. He had a kind heart, loved his friends and family immensely, and was an honest man.

James was a dedicated sports fan as well. He loved the Dallas Cowboys, the West Texas A&M Buffaloes, and many other professional teams. It would be nearly impossible to describe the man that James was without mentioning his love for his best friend and wife, Reba. Married for more than 50 years, James and Reba wed on November 15th, 1972. James’ love for Reba was immense, tender, and kind. Inevitably, they shared countless conversations, memories, and experiences, but mostly appreciated sitting in each other's presence. James was a soulful, thoughtful, and caring man who will be deeply missed by many.

James is preceded in death by his parents, James Grimes Bailey, and Mildred Claire Doerfler; Siblings Mary Jo Flatt, Gene Bailey, and Karen Peden; and Grandson Justin Merrill.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Samaritans' Purse at https://www.samaritanspurse.org/