James (Beatle) Wiley Bailey, 94, of Columbus, MS, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025, at the MS State Veteran's Home in Kosciusko, MS.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home in Columbus, MS. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 P.M. at North MS Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Kilmichael, MS, with Bro. Kenny Gardner officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.

James was born on January 3, 1931, in Stewart, MS, to the late Luther Edward Bailey and Mary Lou Sheppeard Bailey. On November 3, 1956, he married the love of his life, Mildred Earline Wood. Together, they raised two sons, James Wiley Bailey, Jr. and Michael Duane Bailey.

A man of unwavering faith, James was a devoted Christian who lived his beliefs through both words and actions. He was a member and Deacon at Calvary Baptist Church and a proud member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows Lodge in Columbus, MS. He served his country honorably in the United States Army Artillery Unit during the Korean War.

James retired as a Fire Captain from the Columbus Fire Department. He was also a passionate entrepreneur, owning several businesses, including Bailey's Sewing Machine Repair, which served the Columbus community for many years. Alongside his brother, Ben Bailey, he co-owned Bailey Brothers Used Cars and Body Shop and Bailey's Shoe Repair.

James was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who deeply cherished his family and friends. Known for his kindness and generosity, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His humor and joy for life were evident in the way he shared funny stories, pranks, and his signature jokes, such as the "Fisherman's Handshake" and "How a Horse Eats an Apple."

An avid outdoorsman, James loved fishing, camping, and traveling. After retirement, he and Mildred embarked on adventures across the United States in their motorhome, with trips out West being among his favorite memories.

James was also known for his sharp sense of style and love for classic cars, often saying, "Dress for Success." His passion for music was undeniable—he played the guitar and sang in several bands until a stroke made it impossible to continue.

His beautifully maintained yard was a source of pride, with neighbors often admiring his flowers and pristine lawn. Later in life, he found joy in the companionship of his beloved beagle, Dixie. The two were inseparable, enjoying rides on the lawn mower and afternoons on the backyard swing.

James was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ben Bailey. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mildred Bailey; his sister, Mary Jane Cox (Ernie); his sons, James (Gene) Bailey and Michael (Debbie) Bailey; three grandchildren, Tina (Josh) Inzer, Kalyn (Bryan) Fuller, and James Bailey; and six great-grandchildren, Anniston Alice, Anslee, Cooper, Wes, Scarlett, and Anthony. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and his sister-in-law, Jean Bailey.

James will be remembered for his faith, kindness, and the love he shared with everyone around him. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched.