Jeffrey Arthur Bailey of Overland Park, KS, passed away on May 11, 2018, at home surrounded by family, following a brief illness. A Mass celebrating his life will take place at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, KS at 10am on Wednesday, May 16, 2018. Burial will take place in Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, KS, following Mass. A Rosary and Visitation will take place prior to the funeral at 9am at Church of the Ascension. Memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities of NE Kansas, Great Plains SPCA, The American Cancer Society or Church of the Ascension. Mr. Bailey was born on July 30, 1943 in Chicago, IL. He graduated from Pittsburg State University and worked his entire 35-year career for Phillips Petroleum Company, first in Bartlesville, OK and later in St. Charles, IL. He retired in 1999 and moved to Overland Park where he became involved with Catholic Charities of NE Kansas. As a "full-time volunteer", Jeff opened and operated a food pantry in Wyandotte County, pouring his heart and soul into it, even winning Catholic Charities Volunteer of the Year award in 2014. He also enjoyed golfing and spending time with family, especially his grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Rosemary Bailey and his sister Fay Knowles. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Kathleen (DeCoursey) Bailey; a brother Ted Bailey (Marty); a sister Debbie Donati (George); three children: Steve Bailey (Catie), Pam Protzman (Andy) and Erin Finkelmeier (J.R.); and six grandkids: Aaron Bailey, Aidan Bailey, Jack Protzman, Grant Protzman, Bailey Finkelmeier and Miller Finkelmeier. Condolences may be left online at www.mcgilleystatelinechapel.com. Arr. by McGilley State Line Chapel, 816-942-6180.

Published in Kansas City Star on May 15, 2018