Ms. Tanya Bailey

Ms. Tanya Bailey, born on January 7, 1962 in the bustling heart of, Indianapolis, Indiana and danced her way into world—a true “Blues Baby,” as she affectionately called herself, with her first bath taken in muddy waters. Who could have predicted that this spirit would dazzle us all while managing in the restaurant industry, where her diligent service earned her not just a trip to Disney World, but a glittering of rewards and medals! Talk about a resume that could make even Mickey Mouse envious!

After a gallant battle with various health issues stretching over 15 years, the good Lord decided Tanya had completed her mission of being an extraordinary life partner, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, and called her home on October 4, 2024. Whether it was through her loving and fierce personality or her offbeat sense of humor—often leaving everyone in stitches—Tanya surely left a mark on everyone lucky enough to know her.

Sundays at Tanya’s house were not for the faint of heart. The aroma of her famous Sunday dinners wafted miles away, calling family and friends to gather ’round, where laughter was as plentiful as the food. The holiday season brimmed with joyous celebrations, including abundant birthdays and unforgettable Thanksgiving dinners that could rival any magazine spread. Her family cherished those gleeful times spent together—music, dancing, a whole lot of food, and plenty of laughter. Tanya had a knack for turning the simplest grocery store trip into a comedy sketch, leaving her kids giggling and occasionally hiding from a spontaneous impromptu dance party in aisle five!

An alma mater of Crispus Attucks High School, Tanya made her mark everywhere, especially as she watched her three children flourish—Dewayne Wallace, Amber Simmons, and Vanity Daniels—and cheered them on at every school event like their personal hype woman. Her pride in being the best mom and partner was evident, and on special nights, you could find her cozying up with her grandchildren, Koi Daniel and Tyrone-DeWayne Wallace, probably tuning into some soulful blues that made even the walls sway.

Even after her earthly departure, Tanya's legacy will resonate vibrantly within the hearts of those she leaves behind: her children, her brother Marvin Wallace, her sister Debra Wallace, and all the family gathered in her joyful memories. She will be missed by a plethora of relatives and friends, but they won’t gather in sadness. Instead, they'll reminisce about those holiday light viewings, movie dates, and countless trips to the public library—adventures that blended fun with warmth, each one peppered with Tanya’s effervescent spirit.

She is preceded in death by those she loved dearly, including her mother Ruby Hooten, father Azelle Bailey, and brothers Tyrone and Robert Wallace. Let’s not forget her dear sisters Gloria Jean Wallace and Adrene Dejournett, and the love of her life for 15 wonderful years, Alfonso Bollen.

We can only imagine the heavenly reunion that's taking place right now, with Tanya cracking jokes and grooving to the blues, reunited with her loving family. So as we bid adieu, let's raise a glass of iced sweet tea (Tanya style) in remembrance of a woman whose life was a beautiful melody of laughs, love, and the best darn home-cooked meals anyone could ask for. Rest easy, Ms. Tanya Bailey—you’ll forever remain our shining star!