Reverend Thomas Edwin Bailey of Danville, Virginia, went to be with his Heavenly Father on January 10, 2018, at the age of 73. He was born in Borger, Texas, on October 5, 1944, the son of John and Musa Bailey. He was joyfully welcomed to heaven by his loved ones, including his son Paul; his parents; his brothers, Johnny “Shot” Bailey and Donnie Bailey; his brothers-in-law, Oakellel Dabney and David Berry; his sister-in-law, Joann Bailey; his niece, Deborah Dabney; and his nephew, David Bailey.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Bailey; his daughter, Jennifer Vickers, and her husband, Chuck; his son, Parke Bailey, and his wife Stephanie; his daughter, Mary Bailey; his son, Matthew Bailey, and his wife, Jennifer; his grandchildren, Julia Bailey, Lucy Bailey, Michael Vickers, Tori Vickers, Erin Vickers, and Maddi Vickers; three sisters, Lavelle "Wow" Dabney, Audrie "Deal" Berry, and Rhonda Proctor; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In his teens, he started out as a cabinet maker. Later in his career, Rev. Bailey blessed others with his service of nearly 40 years as a Christian school educator and pastor. He earned a Master’s degree in Christian Education in his 50s.

He loved to preach the gospel and share his testimony with others. Tom enjoyed family gatherings, especially if they involved a good game of dominoes. He also enjoyed reading and regularly finished 15 books in a month.

Though his passing was unexpected, Tom and his family were blessed with many special moments during the recent holidays. Their time together was full of laughter, joy, and many, many hugs. His family will forever treasure the memories.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Swicegood Funeral Home with Rev. Chuck Vickers officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Floral Hills Memory Gardens.

Swicegood Funeral Service is respectfully serving the Bailey family. 

Please sign the guestbook at www.swicegood-barker.com, www.facebook.com/swicegoodbarker, and www.godanriver.com.

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