Obituary for Charles Jeffrey Bailey

Charles Jeffrey Bailey, 75, of Laurel, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at his home on June 27, 2026. A faithful Christian man who loved the Lord with all his heart, Jeff had an unwavering devotion to his family and found his greatest joy in the time he spent with them, always offering steady support, wisdom, and unconditional love. Though they grieve his passing, his family finds peace in knowing he is now resting in heaven. Forever missed, he leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and kindness.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Claude and Candice Knight, mother, Naomi Bailey Casey, his father, Jeffie Guice Bailey, and stepfather, Lunsford Casey.

Jeff was a 1968 graduate of R.H. Watkins High School and the University of Southern Mississippi. He was a member of the Army National Guard where he served as a supply sergeant. A pillar of the community, Jeff was a local businessman and a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Laurel for over 25 years, where he served as a deacon and was passionate about ministering to the older church members who could no longer physically attend church.

For 14 years, Jeff worked as an offshore mechanical specialist for Shell Oil company, spending long hours hundreds of miles out in the Gulf of Mexico working in production. His time working for Shell left an indelible impression on his life and led him to follow his passion for automobiles into entrepreneurship. He founded Wholesale Autos Only on Queen Street in Laurel, which he owned and operated for 30 years, first with his dear friend Billy James and later as the sole proprietor.

His connection to Laurel only grew with time. Always eager to find new ways to serve, Jeff was elected to the Laurel City Council in 1992, where he eventually served as President. During his time on the city council, he was instrumental in the development of the Laurel City Sportsplex, an accomplishment for which he remained proud as the sportsplex continued to grow and welcome tournaments, events, and athletes from around the country. In recognition of his dedication and service to the city, Jeff was honored with the Key to the City of Laurel in 1996.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Cathy Bailey, and his treasured children, Patrick Robinson (Rhonda), Brad Bailey (Elizabeth), Amanda Bailey Allgood (Culley), and Jeffrey Guice Bailey (Ryan), and grandchildren, Andrew Robinson, Audri Bailey, Wells Allgood, Mae Alice Allgood, and Charlie Bailey. He also leaves behind an extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews and his ever faithful dog, Jasper.

Services for Jeff’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, July 1 at First Baptist Church of Laurel at 3:00 PM. Visitation will be from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM, with the service beginning at 3:00 PM. His childhood friend, Reverend John Helveston, will officiate.

Pallbearers will include Ed Carter, Ronnie Butts, Larry Johnson, Dempsey Brady, Steve Guy, and Andrew Robinson. Honorary pallbearers will include David Hayes, William Gulley, Mark Mackey, and Cecil Klutts.

The family wishes to thank Jeff’s lifelong friends, neighbors, fellow car enthusiasts, and extended family for their outpouring of love and support during his battle with cancer.