Retired SFC Oliver James Bailey II, (56) passed away in his sleep at his home in Vass, NC on September 15, 2023. Oliver (OJ) was a proud Army Green Beret combat veteran who served our country from 1989 -2009. He was a brave and decorated soldier. He was honorably discharged from Ft. Lewis, WA in 2009. Upon retirement, he continued to serve our country with special assignments in the Middle East. He was a true patriot with an affinity for people, his family and his country. He spoke Arabic fluently and was a skilled communications operator.
Oliver, also known to family and friends as (Jim), was born on October 7, 1966 in Redwood City to Judy & Jim Bailey. He grew up in Oroville, CA and attended local schools. Jim had a big heart and would give the shirt off his back to anyone. Known for his charismatic charm and can do attitude, he was loyal to the bone and loved his daughters beyond measure. He had a passion for the outdoors as an avid hunter who loved fishing, the ocean, cooking and spending time with his family and his service dog, Meg. He was a son, a brother, a loving Father, an Uncle, a cousin and friend to many. He joins his mother Judy in heaven and is survived by his father, Jim Bailey, Sr. of Oroville, daughters Eden & Olivia Bailey of Santa Maria, his sister Julie & Marc Solis of Orcutt, his sister Joy & Cade Newman of Arroyo Grande, his brother Jon Bailey & Esther Kang of Oroville, his brother Joseph Bailey & Patrick Kutz of Portland, OR, several nieces and nephews and his former spouse Ali Bailey of Santa Maria. He will be remembered for his generosity and strong faith in Christ. Jim will be greatly missed.
A memorial service is planned for Saturday, October 21, 2023 at First Christian Church in Santa Maria, CA at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow TBD. His final resting place will be at Arlington National Cemetery TBD. Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
~Till Vahalla
Online condolences may be left at: www.bolesfuneralhome.com
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home, Southern Pines.
