Rev. John F. Bailey, 82, of Nobleboro, left this earth for his eternal life with our Heavenly Father, on Jan. 28.
Born on April 8, 1931 in Bristol, he was the son of John and Catherine Bailey. John attended Bristol High School until his junior year, and then graduated from Lincoln Academy. Upon graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served honorably until Feb. 14, 1952.
John married Arlene F. Herald on Dec. 7, 1957.
He worked in the grocery business for many years, including the commissary at Brunswick Naval Air Station, and eventually retired from a position at Lincoln Academy.
In 1965, John and Arlene accepted the Lord Jesus Christ into their hearts, and became born again Christians. That’s when their wonderful journey began.
John sang with many Gospel groups throughout the years, and spread the glorious gospel and his wonderful testimony to many people which brought them to the Lord! He was part of the Swordsman, Northern Lights, Campbell Family, Gospel Lights, New Life Singers, Heavens Blend and the Rose Family just to mention a few.
John was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. He was always ready to help anyone in need.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Lloyd, Roberta, Rodrick, Richard, Russell, Alta and husband Forrest Sr.; great-grandchildren, Keegan, Sydney and Piper; and nephew, Lloyd Jr.
John is survived by his wife of 57 years, Arlene Bailey; daughter, Teresa Markiewicz and husband Tom; sons, Wendell Bailey and wife Susan, and Glenn Bailey and wife Carmen; brother, Lynn Bailey and wife Michelle; nephew, Richard Bailey and wife Kendra; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held 11 a.m., Sat., Feb. 1 at the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta, with Pastors James Clarkson and Peter Inchcomb officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the John Bailey Memorial Fund, c/o Damariscotta Bank & Trust, P.O. Box 999, Damariscotta, ME 04543.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
