Ray L. Bailey Jr's Obituary
Ray L. Bailey Jr., 73, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. Born on June 13, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, Ray lived a life marked by service, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Ray served honorably as a Specialist 4th Class (SP4) during his time stationed in Korea. His commitment to duty and his country was a defining chapter of his early life and remained a source of pride throughout the years.
Ray pursued a career as a private investigator. With sharp instincts and an unyielding sense of justice, he built a reputation for integrity and perseverance. After many years of dedicated work, he retired from the profession but never lost his keen eye or inquisitive spirit.
Ray was known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor. He had an unmatched ability to make people laugh and feel at ease—whether through a well-timed joke or simply by being himself. His loyalty and honesty were cornerstones of his character; those who knew him best often described him as the most loyal and honest person they had ever met.
Ray is survived by and lovingly remembered by his daughter Mary (Jessica) Marquez; his son Troy (Morgan) Bailey; granddaughters Karina, Adasyn, and Tenley; and grandson Dominic; and soon to be born granddaughter Raelyn. He also leaves behind his sister Linda Shirley; brothers Frederick Holtz and Joseph Holtz; former wife and friend Dorothy Bailey; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who cherished him dearly. His lifelong best friend Rick Spidel stood beside
him through life’s many seasons. He was deeply devoted to his family and friends.
Ray was preceded in death by his mother Margaret Holtz, father Frederick Holtz, sister Margaret Berry, and many very close friends whose memories he carried with him always.
A man of faith, Ray was Christian in belief and lived out those values through kindness and dedication to others. He found joy in cheering for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Florida Gators—teams that brought him countless hours of excitement and camaraderie.
Above all else, Ray loved being a father and “Pop Pop.” His children and grandchildren were the light of his life. He took immense pride in their accomplishments and treasured every moment spent with them. Ray’s legacy is one of laughter shared, love given freely, promises kept without fail—and a heart that
never wavered in its devotion to family and friends.
May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those who carry forward the values he held dear.
The family will host a celebration of Ray's life with close friends and family, and the time and place will be shared once finalized.
Ray will be interred at Florida National Cemetery | Bushnell FL with Military Honors.
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