Aviation Jet Engine Mechanic Chief, John William Baily, US Navy Retired, 81, passed away peacefully at his home on July 21st, with many of his loved ones by his side.
John was born to Geraldine Jennings-Baily on July 28th, 1941, in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. He was raised with love on a farm in the beautiful hills of Pennsylvania by his mother, Geraldine, and their hard-working family friend named Hagan John, whom they affectionately called Uncle Hagan. Hagan stepped up and took over the role of father figure in John’s life. Uncle Hagan taught John to farm, fish, drive, and how to be a good and honorable man and father.
John enlisted in the US Navy in 1958, where he inspected, tested, and repaired aircraft engines and propellers of all kinds. John proudly served his country for more than twenty years. After his first few years in the Navy, John married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Judith (Judy) Ann Ball. John and Judy were united in marriage in October of 1960 as young teenagers, ready to embark on new life adventures together. Many of those adventures included living the Navy life, and traveling the country together in their motorhome. After proudly serving his country for many years, John continued his tradition of service by working for more than twenty years as a custodian at Oak Harbor High School. It was here that he took pride in serving his community and helping to shape the lives of the youth in Oak Harbor.
By far, the greatest adventure that John and Judy had together was parenthood. They had three beautiful children, all of whom they loved unconditionally. First born was Mark Douglas (Jody) Baily. Then came their beautiful daughter, Amy Jo Baily, who went to live in heaven as an infant. Finally, they completed their family with Patrick Howard (Lynnette) Baily. John was also the fiercely proud grandpa to five grandchildren, Krista (Kyle), Ryan, Cori (Brian), Cameron, and Kendall. He was lovingly known as “Paca” to both Cori and Cameron. He was also especially pleased to have become a great grandpa to Amsen and Leopold.
John is preceded in death by his loving mother, Geraldine Jennings-Baily-Keener, his uncle, Hagan John, his wife, Judith Baily, his precious daughter, Amy Jo Baily, and his dear sister, Wanda Keener. John is survived by many additional loved ones including his treasured brother and sisters, Anna Jane (Jon) Davisson, Nancy (Frank) Stankus, Steven (Donna) Keener, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Joanne (Bob) Tallarovic, and his furry four-legged companion and best friend, Izzy.
John was the very picture of service, devotion, and courage. He exemplified the US Navy motto, “Semper Fortis,” always courageous, in everything he did. He lived life from one adventure to the next. He remained devoted to his wife in love and marriage for more than fifty years, and he served his country and community with courage always. Fair winds and following seas, John, you will be greatly missed by all the people who have had the honor to know and love you. John’s family will celebrate his life with a private memorial service. Interment will be carried out by Wallin-Stucky Funeral Home of Oak Harbor, WA.
