Marlray Bailey was born on December 5, 1952, in San Diego, California. He was the
youngest male child of seven children born to the late Azzie L. (Kimble) and Willie Bailey Jr. Marlray grew up and attended school in the San Diego area and graduated from Lincoln High School.
After graduation, Marlray began his career as a Sheet Metal Fabricator at Rohr Industries in Chula Vista, CA., which he excelled at. After leaving Rohr, Marlray became a dilettante in various avenues; however, one skill that he labeled himself a professional was that of a fisherman. Marlray loved to go fishing with his son Marlray Jr. and his favorite nephew Little Karl. Though Marlray loved to fish, and many of us have heard his stories about the big one that got away…the real story was about the journey, not the catch. He taught us that sometimes the best part about fishing was being in each other’s presence, sharing stories and memories.
Marlray was also known for his appetite. He enjoyed family BBQ’s, holiday feast, festivities, a good drive-thru-meal, and any all you can eat at restaurants, such as Golden Corral, which was his favorite.
On May 23, 2024, with his daughter Leana (Mimi) by his side, God decided to call his son to enter eternal rest and join with his parents, brothers; John Warren, Karl, and Kenneth Bailey, and his longtime companion Karen Ray, whom all preceded him in death.
Marlray is survived by his former wife yet faithful friend Linda Tabbs, his five loving children; Jermaine Tates, Leana (Mimi) Bailey-Milton, son-in-law Versil Milton, Ashonte Threadgill, Marlray Bailey, Jr., and Mar‘Shel Hollimon, grandchildren; Versil Milton, Jr., Anthony Milton, Andres Milton, Mia Milton, Aaden Bailey, Leana Tates, Jermaine Tates, Jr., and Quashaun Thompson, three sisters; Patsy Bailey, Carolyn McCain, and Dolores Paredes, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.
