Funeral Information
Location:
Ruby Funeral Services & Crematories
Date: 10-17-2025
Time: 02:30 PM
Time: 02:30 PM
Visitation Information
Location:
Ruby Funeral Services & Crematories 1520 East Washington Street, Springfield, Illinois 62703
Date: 10-17-2025
Time: 01:30 PM
Time: 01:30 PM
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Obituary
Willie Thomas Bailey, 63, peacefully transitioned on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at St. John’s Hospital. Born on February 22, 1962, in West Memphis, Arkansas, he was the beloved son of the late AB Bailey, Sr., and Delores Bailey.
A proud graduate of Lanphier High School Class of 1980, Willie spent much of his career working in the food industry. He embraced his faith early in life and remained a devoted Moorish American until his passing. Despite living with a disability, Willie’s spirit was vibrant, found joy in singing, sharing laughter, and bringing his family together. Known for his love of Macaroni and Cheese and his infectious personality, he was affectionately called the “Cool Uncle” and was truly the “Life of the Party.”
Willie was preceded in death by his parents, uncles Demetry and Thomas Glass, and his life partner, Sheila Jones. He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter to be cherished by: his son, Carl Jefferson; grandchildren, Talayia and Tamaih Jefferson and Maliki Wiseman; godson, Javarus Bailey; brothers, AB Bailey Jr., of New Albany, IN, and Curtis, Bobby, Gary, and Marlon Bailey, all of Springfield, IL; sisters, Carolyn Bailey of Springfield, IL, Evelyn Franklin of St. Petersburg, FL; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
A proud graduate of Lanphier High School Class of 1980, Willie spent much of his career working in the food industry. He embraced his faith early in life and remained a devoted Moorish American until his passing. Despite living with a disability, Willie’s spirit was vibrant, found joy in singing, sharing laughter, and bringing his family together. Known for his love of Macaroni and Cheese and his infectious personality, he was affectionately called the “Cool Uncle” and was truly the “Life of the Party.”
Willie was preceded in death by his parents, uncles Demetry and Thomas Glass, and his life partner, Sheila Jones. He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter to be cherished by: his son, Carl Jefferson; grandchildren, Talayia and Tamaih Jefferson and Maliki Wiseman; godson, Javarus Bailey; brothers, AB Bailey Jr., of New Albany, IN, and Curtis, Bobby, Gary, and Marlon Bailey, all of Springfield, IL; sisters, Carolyn Bailey of Springfield, IL, Evelyn Franklin of St. Petersburg, FL; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.