Mr. James Artis Bailey

January 5, 1957 - July 1, 2021

James Artis Bailey, 64, husband of Betty J. Aaron Bailey, transitioned peacefully surrounded by family on July 1, 2021 at his residence in Columbia, SC. Born January 5, 1957 in Moultrie, GA, he was the youngest of twelve children born to the late Willie D. and Bertha Mae Wilborn Bailey. He was a graduate of Commerce High School, Springfield, MA in the Class of 1975. While in Springfield, he attended Holy Trinity Holiness Church. James was employed as a machine operator by Pierce Distribution Company for over ten years. He was a fun loving person who enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends. He had a special love for Old, R&B Blues and Gospel music; dancing and entertaining. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Tanesha Bailey; sisters, Annie Robinson, Betty Foster, Ola Bailey; brothers Bobby, Willie, Jr. and Elisha Bailey. James leaves to cherish precious memories his devoted wife, Betty Aaron Bailey of Columbia, SC; one son, Jamie Bailey of Montgomery, AL.; a daughter Monique Aaron of Columbia, SC.; four sisters, Mary Coleman, Springfield, MA; Mary Hill, Decatur GA, Pearlie (Juanzia) Williams, Windsor, CT and Elizabeth (Bennett) Woods of Temecula,CA; two brothers, Elijah Bailey and Paul Bailey both of Springfield, MA; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral Services will be held 11am Friday, July 9, 2021, at the Palmer Memorial Chapel of Columbia, with the Rev. Edward Cooks, officiating. Interment will follow at the Memorial Gardens of Columbia. The public may view on Thursday, July 8th, from 12 noon until 5pm and on Friday from 9am until the hour of service.