J. David Bailey

J. David Bailey, January 3, 1922 – July 5, 2025 James “David” Bailey, age 103, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on July 5, 2025, at his home in Alexandria, VA. David was born in Bluefield, West Virginia on January 3, 1922, the beloved son of the late Robert Lake and Laura Evans Bailey. He graduated from Bluefield High School, West Virginia University, and earned advanced degrees in economics and statistical analysis from WVA University and Babson College. David held major positions at US Steel and Edison Electric Institute, a leading trade association where he was responsible for their Annual Report. He enjoyed working and living in Pittsburgh, New York City, and in Alexandria, VA at Parc East, where he has resided for the last 45 years. Additionally, David was President and CEO of The John B. Goff Land Company for many years. David was a decorated Army Combat Veteran, who served with dignity and honor in the infantry in Belgium, France and Germany in World War II. He was honored with 2 Bronze Stars, the French Legion of Honor, and The Order of Saint Maurice. He was proudest of the Tribute to his service in the Congressional Record placed by Senator Shelley Moore Capito, (WVA). In retirement, he was national President of his Veterans organization, The Battle of the Bulge Association. He traveled throughout the US and Europe recognizing and preserving the memory of those who gave their lives and suffered the wounds of war. David had many interests and was an avid world traveler, visiting 27 countries in all 7 continents including the North and South Poles. David lived an admirable and remarkably long life, where he did much good in the world. He gave generously to worthy causes and leaves behind many dear friends and family, who cherish him for his joyous spirit, kindness, dedication, and generosity. Since growing up in Bluefield’s Trinity United Methodist Church, David always attended church, and was a proud member of Washington Street United Methodist Church in Alexandria, VA for the past 35 years. David is preceded by death by his dear sisters, Adelaide Bailey (Dr. James N. Truesdale) and Constance Bailey (Gen. J. Kemp McLaughlin). He is survived by his niece Carolyn Truesdale and her husband Curtis, nephew Robert Truesdale and his wife Marcia, nieces Laura McLaughlin and Mary McLaughlin, nephew Kemp McLaughlin; great nephews Blaine McLaughlin (Hollis) and Thomas Truesdale, great niece Elizabeth Smith, great, great nieces Bailey Smith and Constance McLaughlin and great, great nephew Preston Smith. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to: Goodwin Living Foundation, Hospice Fund, 4800 Fillmore Ave., Alexandria, VA 22311 (Goodwinliving.org/giving/donate) Washington Street United Methodist Church, 109 S. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314 703-836-4324. To give a memorial gift online at wsumc.com or email: office@wsumc.com Military graveside services for family will be presided by Rev. Brent Brown from Trinity Methodist Church at Monte Vista Park, Bluefield, WVA on July ?, 2025.

J. David Bailey

January 3, 1922 - July 5, 2025