James Edward Bailey-age 26 of Maynardville went to be with the Lord, Saturday morning, November 1, 2025, doing what he loved, in a tragic boating accident. He had the biggest heart and the smartest mind. He loved God, fishing, hunting, and trucks. James never knew a stranger and was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend. He was a member and Deacon of Leatherwood Baptist Church. Preceded in death by his sister, Angel Hope Bailey; grandfathers, Darrell Bailey and Buster Beeler; aunts, Joyce Nicley and her husband, L.D. Nicley, Bessie Bailey; uncle, Greg Bailey.

He is survived by his wife of six years, Caragen Bailey; father, Ronnie Bailey; mother, Regina Beeler; sister, Jessica Binkley; grandmothers, Charlene Bailey, Karen Kitts; parents-in-law, Rusty and Crystal Wilson; sister-in-law, Calington Wilson; brothers-in-law, Brandon and Bryston Wilson, Austin and Colby Moore; nephews, Trenton Likens, Leland Likens; niece, Neveah Likens.

The family will receive friends 5-7 P.M. Thursday, November 6, 2025, with the funeral service to follow at 7 P.M. Thursday, Cooke-Campbell Mortuary Chapel, Rev. Tim Sharp officiating, with music by Forgiven. Family and friends will meet at 1 P.M. Friday November 7, 2025, at the funeral home to proceed to Wilson-Bailey Family Cemetery, Maynardville for the graveside service. Pallbearers: Bryston Wilson, Brandon Wilson, Adam Muncey, Cody Howell, Austin Moore, Tyler Bailey. Honorary pallbearers, Stevie Bailey, Dameion Hurst, Brandon Williams, Wesley Williams, Colby Moore. Arrangements by Cooke-Campbell Mortuary, Maynardville.