Jerry Michael Bailey

Jerry Michael Bailey, a devoted husband, father, and patriot, passed away on February 24, 2026, in Visalia, California, following complications from a stroke. Born on Independence Day, July 4, 1946, in Bainbridge, Georgia, his birthday served as a fitting precursor to a life characterized by service to his country, family, and his community. Jerry answered the call to serve the United States in Vietnam at an early age. He completed two tours of duty with honor. Upon his return, he began a career in law enforcement in Monterey, CA. In 1976, he married his beloved wife, Sally, beginning a partnership that would span five decades. Their first child, Lindsay Erin, was born there in 1977. They eventually moved to Visalia, CA, where their son, Christopher Cash was born in 1984. Jerry cherished his role as a family man, and found his greatest joy in being a father and sharing memorable vacations with his loved ones. They were always his priority in life. After retirement, he & his wife enjoyed traveling to many parts of the U.S., Europe, Canada, & China. They also began taking Ballroom Dance lessons & enjoyed many years as members of Visalia Smooth Dancers, making a wonderful family of friends & serving in the club. The sports he enjoyed were water skiing, tennis, golf, cycling, hunting & fishing, but Jerry was a man of diverse interests and some of the things he participated in, served in, or accomplished during his life were: US Army 1st Sgt National Guard 1st Sgt Monterey County Search & Rescue Team Team in Training (cycling for Leukemia & Lymphoma) Yosemite Mountaineering School Ranger School Paratrooper School Range Master Water Ski School Bible Study Fellowship Certified Scuba Diver B.A. Degree Known for his generous heart and fun-loving nature, Jerry possessed a special gift for encouraging others in every walk of life. He was a Christian who dedicated much of his time to spiritual leadership as a leader for Bible Study Fellowship. His guidance, kindness, and unwavering faith touched many lives in and out of the church. Jerry is survived by his wife, Sally Bailey; his sister, Ramona Haugh of Wenatchee WA; his children, Lindsay Baldwin (Shon Baldwin), Chris Bailey of Visalia, Michael Townsend (Ashley Townsend) of Thousand Oaks; his grandchildren, Bailey and Dax Baldwin, & Roman, Logan, and Mason Townsend. A graveside service featuring a 21-gun salute will be held on March 21 at 10:30 a.m. at the Visalia Cemetery Pavilion. A Celebration of Life will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Radiant Church in Visalia, with a reception to follow. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Jerry Michael Bailey

July 4, 1946 - February 24, 2026