James "Ron" Bailey went to be with Jesus, at age 90 on May 8, 2025. Ron was born on November 23, 1934. He was raised by his parents Fred and Frances Ecker in Ostrander, Ohio. Ron knew at a young age that he wanted to pursue a career as a game warden. He had a long, successful career working as a State of Ohio and Federal game warden.  He also served in the Air National Guard of Ohio.

Ron married the love of his life, Shirley June, on March 5, 1965. He was Father to Steve, Betty, and Anita, and Step-Father to David, Steven, and Connie. Ron was an avid hunter and fisherman, a great storyteller and talented writer.  He wrote the book, "Wilderness Patrol." Ron and Shirley lived in many states but retired to the Blue Ridge Mountains where he was surrounded by the beautiful landscape and wildlife that he loved. He was a member of Sky View Missionary Baptist church and a supporter of the Samaritan's Purse and the ministries of the Billy Graham family.

Ron is preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Bailey, parents Fred and Frances Ecker, brothers Larry Ecker and Fred Ecker, sister Katherine Deane, son David McCrea and daughter Connie Caudill.

Ron is survived by brothers: Dean Ecker (Jenny) and Stanley Ecker, children: Steven McCrea (Randa), Mark Steven Bailey (Marguita), Betty George (Douglas), Anita Bailey, and son-in-law Kermit Caudill, several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

There will be no services at this time.  Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.