Harold Wayne Bailey

Wayne was born October 2, 1940 to G.H. and Edna Bailey, in Center, Texas. Growing up he loved playing basketball and he excelled at it, being named a High School All-American in 1959. After graduating from Greenville High School, he accepted a scholarship to play ball at Baylor University. On August 18, 1961, he married the love of his life, Shirley Webb, at the First Baptist Church in West, Texas. Wayne graduated from Baylor in 1963. He retired from Amoco Production Co. after 32 years. He then worked for the next 20 years as assistant administrator for Southcrest Baptist Church.

Wayne was often described as a gentle giant. He was a soft spoken man who always treated others with kindness and humility. He loved the Lord and he loved his family. He was very proud of his grandkids and had a way of making each one of them feel like they were the most special one. Wayne was often described as a man of integrity. He didn’t often speak out, but when he did people would listen. He loved Southcrest Baptist Church and was excited about the opening of the new addition. The morning that Wayne passed, he and Shirley had driven over to see the progress and he told her, “This really makes me happy!” 

Survivors include his wife Shirley; their children, Jeff Bailey and wife Sharla; Sherri Harden and husband Randy; grandchildren, Ryan Bailey and wife Allison; Cammi Smith and husband, Brandon; Cecily Parish and husband, Clay; Bailey & Bryce Harden; Jackson Bailey; great grandchildren, Owen & Aubrey Smith; Lottie Bailey; sister, Sue Piwetz and husband, James.

He was preceded in death by his parents, G.H. & Edna Bailey.