Obituary

Thomas Clayton Bailey, 80, of Charleston, WV, passed Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Charleston Healthcare Center following a long illness.

Thomas was retired professional musician who worked many years in the music industry. Beginning with his own bands in the 70s and 80s, the Bailey Singers and the Revelation Singers, and working behind the likes of some of the biggest musical acts of the period, including the Temptations, Thomas excelled as one of the best saxophonists in the region. Thereafter, he transitioned into a role with the American Federation of Musicians as President of Local 136 in Charleston, and later as an executive officer on the international board. He was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah Sue Jarrell, and parents, Burman and Virginia Bailey of Cross Lanes, West Virginia.

He is survived by two sons, Richard (Malena) C. Bailey of Boardman, OH, and Christopher T. Bailey of Pittsburgh, PA; three grandchildren, Jet Bailey, Morgan Bailey and Brooke Bailey; and his two beloved cats, Puffy and Tinker. Additionally, he is survived by one adopted daughter, Kisha Eblen of Charleston, WV, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was a devout member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church on the Boulevard West in Charleston and will be missed by many of the community.

Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025 at Danville Memorial Park, Danville, WV, with a celebration of life to follow at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.