William "Kipp" Bailey

William “Kipp” Bailey was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on September 2, 1947, and departed this life to go to his heavenly home on October 15, 2021. William lovingly referred to as Kipp, was the first of five children born to Naomi Bailey and the late William Bailey Jr.  Kipp confessed Christ as his personal savior at an early age and lived his life to the fullest according to God’s will.

                Kipp was a true artist!  He was known throughout the Fort Wayne community for his unique style of artistic paintings and murals. He was a creative, energetic, charismatic man of God that stood out in a crowd.  His light was so bright, it illuminated around every person he met.  His love of Christ and spiritual awareness is depicted in many of his drawings and paintings. 

            Kipp always lived a healthy lifestyle. You would see him riding a bike, jogging (even backwards), or freestyle dancing “with his hands in the air”.  He always had a big smile, always a kind word, always a helping hand, a loving son, brother, great teacher, mentor, and trusted friend.

                Kipp graduated from Central High School in 1966 where he was a star athlete on the basketball team. He also received the distinguished Seratoma Award for outstanding athletics with high academic achievement.  After high school, Kipp served our country in the United States Air Force for four years as a flight technician.  After leaving the military with an honorable discharge, Kipp attended Arkansas Tech University where he showcased his basketball skills.  In 1972, Kipp transferred to Indiana University, Bloomington where he completed a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Fine Arts and teacher certification in 1975. After teaching Art instruction to middle school students for many years at Fort Wayne Community Schools, Kipp retired in 2012.  Retirement provided Kipp an opportunity to expand his knowledge and explore new art techniques. During the last few years, Kipp created “Kipper Vision” digital art designs, which integrates extraordinary art, photography, videos, and music.  Kipp is admired, respected, and loved by many people. His art and persona will live forever.

            Kipp is preceded in death by his grandparents William & Stella Bailey and his father William Bailey Jr.

            Kipp is survived by his mother, Naomi Bailey and brothers Glenn Bailey (Willie Bailey), Jack Bailey (Nena Bailey), Bobby Bailey (Delonda Bailey) Kevin, Dennis, and Todd Salter. He also leaves sisters Gloria Bailey-Greene (Dirk Greene) and Sue Maydwell.  Kipp will be fondly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and life-long friends.

Memorial services will be held at Mount Calvary Baptist Church October 30, 2021 at 10:30am

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