December 3, 2023, 86, Lucama —

John David (Demps) Bailey, 86, peacefully departed this life and went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 3, 2023. Born on January 1, 1937, in Wilson County, he was the son of the late William David Bailey and Tempie Annie Joyner Bailey.

Demps was an auto mechanic for more than 40 years. In his retirement, he loved to work in his shop designing and making things. He designed, made, and flew numerous model aircraft. He could fix or make nearly anything. His last love was making stringed musical instruments.

John is survived by his loving wife, Peggy Pittman Bailey; daughter, Wendy Thorpe and husband, Allen; son, Frank Bailey and wife, Elizabeth; grandchildren, Jeffrey Bailey and wife, Amber, Harvey “Rat” Whitley and wife, Ashlee, Brandi Mitchell and husband, George, Ashlynn Bailey, Josh Bailey and wife, Alaina, Noah Bailey, Dustin Collins; six great-grandchildren; and a niece, Susie Rutledge.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his uncle, John Bailey, his sister, LaRue Tosto, and his daughter, Sandra Collins.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 7, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. for a time of visitation at Kenly Funeral Service. A service to celebrate John’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Frank Bailey officiating. Interment will be held on Friday, December 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in the Kenly Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.kenlyfs.com.