Felix Andrew (Jazz) Bailey

Felix Andrew (Jazz) Bailey was born March 9, 1920, in Savannah, Tennessee. He was the son of the late Myrtle Ophelia Harbor Bailey and John Bailey.

He was united in marriage to Clara Belle Haynes Bailey, who preceded him on death.

Felix became blind at the early age of 9; he attended the Tennessee School for the Blind in Nashville, where he met his future wife, Clara. They were wed in 1943 after they graduated. He played the trumpet in several jazz bands and toured during the summer months. To support his family he made brooms, mops, and caned chairs.

Felix was an avid baseball fan; the St. Louis Cardinals were always his favorite team. He also belonged to the Federation for the Blind, and as long as his health permitted; he attended the yearly national conventions in various cities. He did not let his handicap limit him; he organized and managed two black baseball teams here in Savannah (Newton). He was a member of Graham Chapel C.M.E. Church and was a Sunday school teacher in his earlier years.

Felix is survived by two sons: Johnnie O. Bailey of Bowling Green, Kentucky and Larry A. Bailey of Savannah, Tennessee; two daughters, Carolyn (Frank) Taylor and Bobbie Robinson all of Savannah, Tennessee; 15 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, George Bailey; a sister, Johnie Mae Murrell; two daughters, Myrtle C. Dixon and Susan L. Harris; one granddaughter, Patty M. Taylor; one grandson, P. Robin Dixon; and one lifetime dear friend, J.R. Dixon.

All who became acquainted with Felix (Jazz) were astounded by his wealth of knowledge and extraordinary memory. He was a “historian” and “storyteller” …”Dad, your legacy lives on.”

There is gold and a multitude of rubies, but the lips of knowledge is a precious jewel
Proverb 20:15