Chris "Tator" Bailey

Chris Bailey (46), known by many as “Tator”, took his last flight on Sunday, April 30, 2023, flying home from Lewisville, Arkansas. Flying was his passion and most will remember him for his need for speed, humorous inventions, and adventurous ways. “Tator” seldom met a stranger and referred to his many friends as “Little Buddy”. When the weather was right, you could easily point him out while he was flying over the parish, running a boat on Lake Claiborne, or driving through town with his four-legged friends “Ridge and Kai”.

Chris was born August 16, 1976, in Homer, LA, to Wayne Bailey and Betty T. Nelson. His mother Betty and dad Curtis Nelson raised him. He graduated from Summerfield High School in 1994 and served in the United States Air Force following his high school graduation. He would often tell stories about the brothers he gained through the military and their experience together. Although he started tearing engines apart at an early age, it was while in the US Air Force that he obtained a mechanics degree. Unfortunately, his family experienced tragedy in 1998 when he lost his beloved mother. Chris discharged from the USAF to be back home with his family.

Chris was a jack-of-all-trades and had numerous jobs throughout his life. In fact, he had numerous jobs at one time. He was always finding new ways to make money through his various business endeavors and eager to put a patent on any new invention, including his “Redneck Get a Drink”. He started his career in 1998 working in a local mechanic shop and in 1999, he ventured out installing T.V. cables in states throughout the South. It was in 1998, that he met his wife Patsy while eating out at the infamous Moon’s Grocery. In 1999, he started his own cable business until he went to work at Boardwalk Pipeline. In 2011, he went off-shore working in the oilfield while also running his side business called “Carmon’s Lawn Care”. After nearly 10 years in the oil field, he decided to start a business he was truly passionate about. For years, he had worked on small engines and playing with hydro dip in his home shop. In 2017, he started CB Marine, a small town business located in Homer, Louisiana. He was constantly busy working on boats, as he was known for his great skills and work ethics. Chris enjoyed flipping boats (giving them an updated look), and sometimes you might even catch him flipping steaks at his father-in- law’s local business.

Chris lived an active, interesting, and meaningful life. There was never a dull moment, and he was often the life of the party. Chris had a bright and energetic personality. To know him was to love him. His family enjoyed every minute that was shared. Memories of hunting, fishing, four wheeler riding, participating in races, and attending boat rallies will be cherished. His family enjoyed watching him live life to the fullest and admired how he had the ability to do whatever he set his mind to. 

Chris is preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Curtis Nelson; paternal grandparents, Cortez and Earnestine Bailey; Uncle, Julius Tuggle; father-in-law, Jerry Bailey, Sr.; and sister-in-law, Shannon Davis Bailey. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Patsy Bailey; two daughters, Briiana and Carmon Bailey; a granddaughter, Mila “Moe Moe”; step mother, Tana “TaTa” Nelson; father, Wayne Bailey (Donna) of Haughton, LA; sister, Stacy Fountain (Marty) of Homer, LA; niece, Brittany McClendon (Hayden) of Homer, LA; two nephews, Colton and Caleb Fountain of Homer, LA; great-niece, Jayden; great nephew, Jo; brother-in-law, Jerry Bailey; nephew, Reed Bailey (Chyenne); brother-in-law, Daryl Bailey; nephew, Parker Bailey; step siblings, Tim Williams (Crystal), Jennifer Head, Carrie Cook (Brandon), Nicole Waterman, Kim Veneman (Josh), and countless other friends and family. 

Honorary Pallbearers are those that served with him in the United States Air Force.

Pallbearers are all of Chris’ “Little Buddies.” Chris had so many true friends that were dear to his heart. It is impossible to list them all.

The family would like to give thanks to friends and family that have guided them through this tragic loss. We are aware that there are many hurting right now, and your presence is a huge comfort. We find new ways of coping daily through your support and kind ways. Chris really did have the best “Little Buddies”.  

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life gathering on Saturday, May 13, 2023, for 11:00 a.m., at First Baptist Church, 406 West Main Street, Homer, LA. Visitation will be at the church from 10-11 a.m., prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been set up at Gibsland Band and Trust, 600 East Main Street, Homer, LA, for “The Chris Bailey Memorial Account.”

His family also suggests passing on an act of kindness to whomever and however you wish in memory of “Tator.”  

Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Homer Chapel (318) 927-6110