Dwight Eugene Bailey I

Dwight Eugene Bailey I affectionately known as "Dikie," was born on June 1, 1952, and peacefully passed away on September 5, 2024, at the age of 72. Born to Elsie May Bell-Bailey and Jettie Alan Bailey Sr., Dwight's childhood was filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of a large family. He was one of ten siblings: James Henry (Elizabeth), Frances Louise (Joe), Carol, Jettie Jr., Collis (Tony), Michael (Patsy), Delsia (Dwight), Jettie (Shauntee), and Eugene (Nicole). He was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Audrea “Jeanie,” Uncle Eugene "Pap," brothers James "Jimmy," Jettie Jr., and Jettie "Little Jettie."

Dikie attended and graduated from Middletown High School, where he met the love of his life, Deborah Jean Scott. They were married on June 3, 1972, beginning a beautiful journey of 52 years together. Their love was the foundation of their family, which grew to include three children: Dwight Eugene II (Aishya), Tamekol "Tammy," and Deon. Their family was Dikie’s pride and joy.

After high school, Dikie went on to work at Armco/AK Steel, where he worked faithfully for 35 years in Central Lubrication as a Journeyman. But his true calling was to serve. Having come to know the Lord at an early age at 11th and Lincoln Church of God, Dikie became a minister of the Gospel and served at New Era Baptist Church. His heart for ministry took him to serve at Towne Blvd. Church of God, Omega Baptist Church in Dayton Ohio, the Crisis Pregnancy Center, and Hope House.

Dikie “Mr. Bailey” was a mentor and father figure to many and a friend to all. He was passionate about being a good neighbor. He loved to fish, garden with his beloved Deborah, laugh with his children, and be the best Pawpaw ever. He was a devoted husband, providing father, and proud "PawPaw, who always had a smile to brighten, a joke to tell, a hand to lend, a heart to serve, a shoulder to lean on, a tear to share, and a promise to "Love You More!"

Dikie leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Deborah, their three children, seven grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his siblings, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. His humor, kindness, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dwight Eugene Bailey I, please visit our floral store.