Kenneth Edward Bailey's Obituary
Kenneth Edward Bailey, passed away July 4, 2025, at the age of 84 surrounded by his family in his home in Tampa, Florida. Ken was an energetic activist and leader throughout his life. He graduated from Hillcrest High School in Dallas in 1958 where his energy won him the “Most Fun“ title and cheerleader. After graduating from Texas Tech, Ken took a summer job working oilfields in remote parts of Alaska. His adventurous spirit led him to join the Marines and left with the rank of Captain in 1971. During his time in the Marine Corps, Ken served in Vietnam and Santo Domingo and was stationed in Quantico, VA, Okinawa and Hawaii. He met Shellie Wilson during shore leave from his ship in Puerto Rico and they married right before he was deployed to Vietnam. After the military, Ken was a sales and marketing executive and businessman in Chicago, Virginia and Massachusetts. Then he settled in his wife’s hometown, Harrison, Arkansas, eventually as owner of Quail Tree Racquet Club. Ken was also a member of the Harrison Chamber of Commerce and City Council and was an active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church where he led the EYC (Episcopal Youth Community) and was a member of the vestry for many years. After retiring, Ken formed the nonprofit Ozark Arts Council which bought and rebuilt the historic Lyric Theater on the Town Square. He also loved performing with the community theater company! He then recognized the need for a homeless shelter and envisioned the House of Hope, a 501(c)(3). He joined VISTA volunteers to lead development of a new walking trail in Harrison and so much more. At almost 80 he wrote the story of his life, Serendipity, published through https://SmallBatchBooks.com. Ken lived life at full speed, full of compassion and ever focused on building community. His generosity knew no bounds! Although Ken is gone, his legacy will live on for so many. “All these years the people said he’s actin’ like a kid. He didn’t know he could not fly, so he did.” The Cape by Eric Bibb, who performed at the Lyric many times and helped inspire Ken to continue building the Arts in Harrison. Originally released and co-written by Gary Clark. He is survived by his wife, Shellie Bailey; his children, Kristin Ward and husband, Steve; Kate Bailey and husband, Jeff; Caroline Bailey and husband Ben; grandchildren, Dana and Jesse Ward, Eowyn Davis and Jasper Bailey; sisters, Joleta Bailey and Susan Bailey of Dallas and many nieces, nephews and godchildren. He was preceded in death by parents, Joe and Leta Bailey and brother, Gary Bailey, all of Dallas. A celebration of life will be held later this year in Harrison, Arkansas and in his original home and birthplace, Dallas, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ozark Arts Council, 115 W. Rush, Harrison, AR 72601 and to the House of Hope, 600 E. Stevenson Ave., Harrison, AR 72601
What’s your fondest memory of Kenneth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Kenneth?
Share a story where Kenneth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Kenneth you’ll never forget.
How did Kenneth make you smile?