James Crockett Bailey

James Crockett Bailey, 86, of Rock, West Virginia and Sebring, Florida completed his earthly journey and met his Lord Almighty on Thursday, February 15th. Jim graduated from Bramwell High, Concord College, and Marshall University, preparing him for a career in education. He began teaching in a two-room schoolhouse at Windmill Gap followed by a year at Bluewell Elementary. This prepared him for a thirty-year career serving as principal at Montcalm Elementary. His devotion to that school and community was reflected in his leadership and guidance for so many young people in the area. 

Jim was foremost a farmer. He loved the land, the cattle, and the work. Bluestone Valley Farm was his pride and joy and he ensured that farm management was always a priority. In addition to his dedication to his farm, he was an active member of the Rock District Improvement Association, the Mercer County Historical Society, and a 50-year member of the Rock Chapter of the Masonic Lodge. He was a lifelong member of Rock United Methodist Church and also attended First Sebring Church and Montcalm Church of Christ. 

Jim married Nancy Hunt and they spent 65 wonderful years together. After his retirement they spent their winters in Sebring, Florida, where they enjoyed the social activities of the area with many of their special friends. They also enjoyed traveling together and taking tours.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Aubrey C. and Stella B. Bailey as well as his son Kenneth Crockett Bailey. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Nancy, daughter Alice Nunn and Son-in- law Gerald (Jerry) Nunn (Rock, WV), his grandchildren Kenneth Nunn and wife Ashton  (Rock, WV), Andrea Nunn (Mooresville, NC), Evan Nunn and wife Brandi (Rock, WV), Chelsea Nunn (Welch, WV), Luke, Trent, Korbin, and Preston Nunn (Rock, WV), and his great grandchildren Mason, Kennedy, Blaine, Grayson, and Ryker Nunn.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Cravens-Shires Funeral Home at 3:00 PM with minister Joe Brinkley and friend Gary Lionel Bailey officiating. Friends may call from 1:00-3:00 PM at the funeral home. Friends are invited to join the family at Riverfront Restaurant on Simmons River Road in Duhring, WV following the service.