David Bailey

David Alford Bailey was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma, on November 6, 1941, to Steve and Cleon Bailey. He passed away on November 17, 2023, after battling melanoma cancer since 2014. He was the fourth child, having three older sisters - Sally, Norma, and Ann. The family moved to the West Tulsa area when David was elementary age as his father worked for the DX Refinery. His education for elementary school was mainly at Park; Junior High was at Horace Mann; High School was at first Daniel Webster, graduating later from Central High School. David enlisted in the United States Air Force while still in high school and served 4 years. He was stationed mainly within the United States with Alaska being one of his home bases. His military assignment while flying was as the gunner on a B52 bomber. David met his wife, Patty, while he was working at a local Pizza Hut and she was attending the University of Tulsa. They were married on March 25, 1967. On June 3rd , 1969, they were blessed with a beautiful little girl, whom they named Dana LeeAnn. David and Patty both loved to travel and gamble before and after his retirement from the Thornton Family YMCA. Many of these trips were with special friends. Their travels took them to all 50 states leaving donations at many a casino. Cruises were also a must; meeting wonderful people and making lasting friendships there as well. Yet the greatest gifts David received in his life besides his daughter, were his amazing son-in-law, Rich, and two special grandsons, Dean and Drew. He was so very proud of not only his daughter, but the two boys that she and Rich had given him. They were his inspiration in life. He was proud of all their accomplishments thus far and of what was still to come. Nothing else can compare to these blessings in his life. It made his life complete! David was predeceased by his parents and his 3 sisters. He is survived by his wife, Patty, of 56 years; daughter Dana (Rich); grandsons Dean and Drew; numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and many special old neighbors and friends. Any memorial donations may be made to Tulsa SPCA, Humane Society of Tulsa or a charity of your choice.

Tributes

David Bailey

November 6, 1941 - November 17, 2023