The journey of life for William John Bailey began on March 13, 1948, in Baconton, Georgia. He was the beloved son of the late Annie and Oliver Bailey.

He was educated in the Baker County School System, graduating from East Baker High School in 1968. While there, he actively participated in various school organizations and sporting events. He continued his education and completed the requirements to become a Master Barber/Cosmetologist in 1969.

Very early in life, William accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. As he continued his Christian walk, he united with the Trinity Power House Ministry where he served faithfully as a Deacon under the leadership of Pastor Willie Chester and Lady Veronica Chester. He was strong in faith, in character, in wisdom, and he remained steadfast as he journeyed through life. He was a shining example of humility ad respect, and God's love for all mankind was manifested through his deeds and actions.

"JW" as he was affectionately called, was ambitious and gave his very best at everything he did. For innumerable years, he was a highly respected and valued master barber/cosmetologist in the Southwest Georgia area. His style, precision, creative abilities, business ethics, and professionalism garnered him the reputation of being an "expert" in his field. Never satisfied with idleness, he was also employed as a bus driver with the Dougherty County School System for more than twelve years. No matter what the task, he always gave his ALL.

William was united in holy matrimony to his soulmate, Viola Hunt, on June 3, 2010. They shared a love and a devotion to one another that was unshakeable. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend who who lived a life of kindness and compassion. You could not find a better friend, listener, advisor, or confidant. Throughout his life, she unselfishly gave of himself to help improve the quality of life for others. His kind spirit will always have a special place in our hearts.

On May 24, 2020, William's earthly journey ended and he transitioned to eternal rest. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by nine siblings.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his devoted wife, Viola Hunt Bailey of Albany, GA; his children, Jeronica Allen of South Carolina, Constance Hunt of Birmingham, AL, Crystal Hunt, Charlene (Michael) Mathis, Anthony Hunt, and Alexander (Shaniqua) Hunt all of Albany, GA; sisters, Kattie (Tommy) Thomas of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Bernice Samuel and Mary Alice Parks of Flint, MI; mother-in-law, Rosa Hunt of Albany, GA; sisters-in-law, Lavone (Glenn) Quick of Tampa, FL, Alice Hunt of Camilla, GA, Shirley (Herman) Ousley of Birmingham, AL, and Melody Hunt of Albany, GA; brother-in-law, Emmett Hunt of Albany, GA; niece, Laverne Bryant; best friend /cousin, L. G. Hayes of Newton, GA; a special family friend, Hilda Clyde; 16 grandchildren; and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends.