James Weldon Bailey

James Weldon Bailey, 84, of Pampa, passed away on July 27, 2024, at home with his family close by.

A private service was held by the family. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors and Crematory.

James was born on August 12, 1939, in Pampa to Chester W. and Claudia G. Bailey. James was a resident of Pampa, and he attended Pampa High School where he met and married his wife of 63 years, Jo Ann Bailey. 

He attended classes at Frank Phillips College and West Texas University to pursue a career in law enforcement. During his course work, he began a career as a policeman. James worked for the Borger Police Department for several years, at first as a patrolman and later serving as a detective. After leaving law enforcement, he worked in the retail industry for 30+ years, where he worked at Skaggs Albertson’s, Family Mart, Kroger, and finally retiring at Wal-Mart. 

In his spare time, he enjoyed art, fishing, reading, but most of all, he loved music. He loved to joke around and had a great sense of humor.

He will be remembered as kind, loving, and caring man who tried his best to protect all those who he loved.

James was a member of the Masonic Lodge where he studied and attained the level of 32nd Degree Mason. He was very proud of this accomplishment.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

James is survived by a daughter, Deborah A. Bailey of Victoria; two sons, Mark W. Bailey of Dallas, and James A. Bailey and daughter in law Jenny of Victoria; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; a sister, Terri Pace of Pampa; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Kerrville Masonic Lodge, P.O. Box 291391, Kerrville, TX 78029.