Thomas Joseph Bailey

Thomas Joseph Bailey a beloved member of the community passed on Saturday, February 24th, 2024, at home surrounded by his loved ones. Born on April 15th, 1942, in Hot Springs, AR to William Thomas Bailey, and Mary Alice Holder-Bailey.

He is preceded in death by his parents, the love of his life Janelle Faye-Bailey; two daughters, Tommi Jo Bailey, and Terri Bailey; two brothers, Butch Bailey, and Charles Bailey; one sister Dosha Bailey, and one grandchild.

Tom lived by his Native American tenants and loved to give his time, proceeds and knowledge to organizations like the Salvation Army, Stop Animal Cruelty, and the Boy Scouts of America, where he served as Native American representative, and was the Order of the Arrow Advisor. He also served as youth minister, and corps SGT major for the Salvation Army. He worked for many years at companies contracted by AT&T/ SWB. Aside from his professional and charitable pursuits, he loved to create leather goods, head dresses, chest plates, tools, and games used in everyday native culture. 

Tom is survived by one daughter, Cheri Ditata of Oklahoma City, and one stepdaughter Cherise Hefner. He will also be missed by his surviving two brothers, William Glen and Dallas Bailey; and one sister Brenda Washburn. He is also survived by ten grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren, and a myriad of nieces and nephews whom he adored along with his loving girlfriend Debra Hefner. 

In loving memory of Thomas Joseph Bailey, a visitation will be held on March 1st, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Hot Springs. This will be followed by a Funeral Service starting at 2:00 PM at the same location to honor and celebrate the life of a man who touched the hearts of many.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Stop Animal Cruelty.