Mary Josephine Messer Bailey of Birmingham, died peacefully at the age of 84 on Sunday, February 21, 2021, at 6:30 PM, surrounded by her family.  Born in 1936 in Verbena, Alabama, Jo was the oldest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Braxton and Eunice Grant Messer. She is predeceased by her eldest son, Jonathan O'Neil Bailey, her former husband, Jerry O'Neil Bailey, her brother William Franklin Messer, her brother Ralph ('Butch') Messer, and her sister Juanita Messer Crabbe. She is survived by her children Jimsey Elizabeth Bailey; Jeremy Allen (Jabo) Bailey (Molly); Joel O'Brien Bailey (Diana) and Jari Josette Bailey, Grandchildren Ashley Cross (Nick), Jeremy, Brandon, and Patrick Bailey. Great-grandchildren Kane and Kason.She is also survived by her brother, John Thad Messer, Nancy Messer Reddell, as well a host of nieces and nephews.

Jo graduated from Jones Valley High School in 1954. She was always a star student and was double promoted twice, finishing at age 16.  She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree at Birmingham Southern College, graduating in 1956.

She had an interesting life centered on family.  She married Jerry O'Neil Bailey in 1956.  Their intent was to raise five children together in suburban Birmingham - Jon, Jimsey, Jabo, Joel, and Jari.  Unfortunately, their marriage ended in 1976, after which time Jo was the primary provider and caregiver. She was extremely dedicated to her family and worked from early morning till late at night to create a beautiful and safe home.  Her children were close in age, so she was a mainstay at school functions and events.

Deciding to go back to work was a necessity to provide for her children, and in 1983 she landed what ended up being her favorite job as Assistant to the Chief of Police at the Birmingham Police Department/Southside Precinct, where she proudly served for 20 years until her retirement in 2003.

Jo enjoyed gardening, home decor, and most of all, spending time with her family.  She will always be deeply loved and sorely missed.