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Turley (Terry) Lee Bailey was born on June 9, 1955, to Elizabeth Bailey and Edward Porters in Knoxville, TN. He passed away at home with his devoted wife of 31 years on March 3, 2024. Terry was the 10th of 18 children. Terry received his formal education within the Knoxville Public School System and was a graduate of Austin East High School. Terry was a dedicated employee with Merita Bakery for twenty-five years until his retirement in 2012. Terry was a proud member of Overcoming Believers Church and there he rededicated his life in. He served as a loyal member of the Hospitality team and Men’s Usher Board. Terry loved his family and extended that love beyond those related by blood. His wife, children and grandchildren were adored by Terry and that love was reciprocated. Terry loved to fish and could often be found with his fishing rod, his son, his grandsons, and a smile. Terry was a kind and gentle soul that never met a stranger and was known to give the shoes off his feet if there was a need. His love and appreciation for people was present in all he did, from giving you a ride to an appointment, detailing your car, or just simply hearing you had a need and doing what he could to assist. Terry has always expressed his love to others through a spirit of hospitality. He loved to cook, grill, and received much joy when his food resulted in a full belly and smile. Pastor Daryl Arnold often refers to his smoked wings as ‘simply the best.” His heart of gold, kindness, and smile will be missed, but cherished in our hearts forever. Preceded in death by: Parents: Elizabeth Bailey and Edward Porters; Brothers: Earl Bailey and Herman Bailey Sr.; Sisters: Annette Bailey and Lenora Long. Terry is survived by: Loving Wife: Deborah Bailey; Son: Avrin Bailey; Daughter: Hershelene (Deveon) Sykes; Grandchildren: Kayden Bailey, Kyrii Bailey, and Ayveon Sykes; Sisters: Mary, Ina Ruth, Gwendolyn, Ella, Angela, Juanita Bailey, Diane Bailey-Johnson; Brothers: Thurman (Cookie), Edward, Randolph (Anna Louse), Jerome, Ronald, Cecil; A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends; Extended family: The Carter, Hester, Davis, Allen, Porter, Simms and Overcoming Believers Church families.
The family will receive friends Friday, March 8th, 2024, from 6:30 – 7:30pm at Overcoming Believers Church, 211 Harriet Tubman St, Knoxville, TN 37915, with a Homegoing service to follow.A dove release will conclude the interment. Interment at 10am on Saturday, March 9th - Mt. Olive Cemetery, Pastor Daryl Arnold presiding.
Final arrangements by Jarnigan & Son Mortuary.