Thomas L. Bailey, Jr., age 76, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2023, after a long battle with the complications of Alzheimer's. He was born on August 22, 1946, in Danville, Virginia to Thomas L. and Helen S. Bailey.
Tom was devoted to his loving wife of 53 years, Donna and his "favorite" son, Christopher. He spent much of his life pursuing education, serving his country, and helping others.
He graduated from George Washington High School and completed two years at the Virginia Tech extension in Danville, Virginia. He then graduated from Virginia Tech's main campus in Blacksburg, Virginia with a degree in Business and Public Administration. While at Virginia Tech, he served as editor of the student newspaper. Later in life he completed the Paralegal Certificate Program at Columbus State Community College and the Mediation and Dispute Resolution Certificate Program at Capital University Law School.
Tom served 22 years in the Virginia National Guard and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer in the Judge Advocate General Corp.
After completing college, Tom worked as a Research Analyst at the Virginia Employment Commission in Richmond, Virginia and in the Accounting Systems/Information Technology Group at ITT in Roanoke, Virginia. He then became an IT Manager for Accounting Systems at American Electric Power in Roanoke, Virginia and in Columbus, Ohio.
After retiring from AEP, Tom provided paralegal services for a law firm and worked as an independent contractor completing mediations for the Franklin County and Delaware County Courts.
Tom enjoyed helping others and held several volunteer jobs at his church and local food pantries. His favorite activity was participating in the Silvertones choral group at the Westerville Senior Center. He was an occasional, not so good, golfer and an avid Virginia Tech sports fan.
Tom will be remembered and greatly missed by his family and friends.
A private service of interment will take place at St. John's Episcopal Church, Worthington, Ohio.
Donations may be made in Tom's memory to the Westerville Area Resource Ministry (https://warmwesterville.org/donate), the Music Fund at St. John's Episcopal Church (by check to 700 N. High St., Worthington, OH 43085 with note in memo line indicating Memory of Tom Bailey and Music Fund), or a special charity of your choice.
Condolences
Cluff Family - Aug 2, 2023
Tom will be missed by so many people. I always loved hearing his laugh! It was contagious! Donna and Christopher, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Carl Moos - Jul 31, 2023
Tom was always a pleasure to work with over all the years, especially the task force in 1990, when we visited all the operating companies and how to reduce operating costs. Then kicked off the PeopleSoft system in Columbus. He was such a pleasure to work with and we had so many good times. So sorry Donna and Christopher for your loss. Anything you need, just call me... Carl , the Moose
John and Susan Hilliard - Jul 31, 2023
During our 50+ years of friendship Tom was always smiling and cheerful. We shall truly miss him on our trips to Ohio. Our love to Donna and Chris.
Roger Heslep - Jul 30, 2023
I have many fond memories of working closely with Tom in Roanoke. He was always very helpful and focused on our projects. We had some wonderful times traveling for work. Donna please know I will be thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers.
Tom Mitchell - Jul 30, 2023
Tom was just the best-natured person - always focusing on how he could help others. He was so kind to me - and has been in our prayers.
Paul and Stacy Pennino - Jul 30, 2023
Donna please know that you and your family are in our prayers.. Tom will be missed
Toni Donahue - Jul 30, 2023
We were so very sorry to hear of Tom’s passing and send our most sincere sympathies to Donna and Christopher. May his memory be a blessing always. Andy and Toni Donahue
Mary Wachtel and John Starkie - Jul 30, 2023
Donna and family, you and Tom have been fixtures at St. John's. We shall miss seeing you there together. Peace to you at this time.
Len and Judy Assante - Jul 30, 2023
Len and I both worked with Tom at AEP. Such a kind and cooperative person he was always willing to help. His good nature was evident. We will miss him and know that he is with our maker. His wife and family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Len and Judy Assante - Jul 30, 2023
Len and I both worked with Tom at AEP. Such a kind and cooperative person he was always willing to help. His good nature was evident. We will miss him and know that he is with our maker. His wife and family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Marsena T Hartless - Jul 29, 2023
I worked with Tom for many years at AEP (VA and OH). He was a great coworker and a dear friend. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.