“All these years, the people said he’s actin’ like a kid. He didn’t know he could not fly, so he did.” The Cape by Eric Bibb, originally released and co-written by Gary Clark.

Eric Bibb has performed at The Lyric Theater in Harrison multiple times and was one of the many inspiring acts that motivated Ken to keep building the Arts scene in the local community.

Former long-term Harrison, Arkansas, resident, Kenneth Edward Bailey, passed away July 4, 2025, at the age of 84 surrounded by his family in his home in Tampa, Florida. Ken was an activist and leader throughout his life. After graduation from Texas Tech, Ken joined the Marines and was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain in 1971. During his time in the Marine Corps, Ken served in Vietnam and was stationed in Okinawa, Santo Domingo, and Hawaii. He met Shellie Wilson during shore leave in Puerto Rico, and they married right before he was deployed to Vietnam. After the military, Ken was a sales and marketing executive and businessman in Chicago, Virginia, Massachusetts, and Arkansas before he bought Quail Tree Racquet Club. Ken was also a member of the Harrison Chamber of Commerce and City Council, and was an active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, where he led EYC and was a member of the Vestry for many years. Many will remember his performances with the Theatre Company. After retirement, he formed the non-profit Ozark Arts Council which bought and rebuilt the Lyric Theater; then he created a 501c3 and envisioned The House of Hope, joined VISTA Volunteers to lead development of a new trail for the crooked creek area of Harrison, and so much more. Ken lived life at full speed, full of compassion and ever-focused on building community - he never stopped moving. His generosity knew no bounds.

Although Ken is gone, his legacy will live on for so many.

He is survived by his wife Shellie Bailey; his children, Kristin Ward and husband Steve; Kate Bailey and husband Jeff; Caroline Bailey and husband Ben; grandchildren, Dana and Jesse Ward, Eowyn Davis, and Jasper Bailey; sisters, Joleta Bailey and Susan Bailey; and many nieces, nephews and godchildren.

He was ppreceded in death by parents, Joe and Leta Bailey, and brother Gary Bailey.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 11th. Details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ozark Arts Council, 115 W. Rush Harrison, AR 72601 and to the House of Hope, 600 E. Stephenson Ave. Harrison, AR 72601.

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