Johnnie Corrinne Wallace Bailey, 99, of Perryville, died Wednesday, December 7, 2022. Johnnie was born September 19, 1923, to Fleet and Amanda Thompson Wallace of Perryville.
A life-long Perry County resident, Johnnie graduated from Perryville High School and briefly attended Ouachita Baptist College before being called home due to her father's death. She took over her father's position in the sheriff's office and became the county's first female deputy sheriff.
She was a dutiful member of the Greatest Generation. She served her country working in a munitions factory during World War II. She lost her first husband, J.Q. Allen, to war-related injuries. Her second husband, Marvin Bailey, was a prisoner of war during WWII. Johnnie valued her citizenship and participated in Veterans and Memorial Day celebrations for her entire life. She served as the local election official and served homemade cookies to voters.
She supported her county and local community and was active in Union Valley Baptist Church. She was a member of the Perry County Historical and Genealogical Society assisting with a history book of Perry County. For 60 years Johnnie was associated with the Perry County newspapers writing and news gathering. She served as her community correspondent for most of that time. She was a songwriter and author as well as an avid writer of poetry. She was a member of the Perry County Branch of the Poets Round Table of Arkansas.
Johnnie's love of her community was only surpassed by her love for her family. She considered herself the matriarch of the Wallace clan. Her home was the gathering place for her large extended family and friends. She enjoyed hosting her annual birthday party, family Christmas parties, and any occasion to welcome visitors.
Johnnie was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, daughter Linda Bailey Metcalf, and siblings Helen Wallace, Dimple Taylor, Bert Wallace, Stanley Wallace, Maxine Tindell, and Charlie Wallace.
Johnnie is survived by her son Robert W. Allen and wife Carol, granddaughter Katharine Allen Adams, great-granddaughters Kate and Olivia, and son-in-law Buddy Metcalf. She is also survived by a loving host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 10, at the Union Valley Baptist Church. Private burial will be at a later date. Arrangements by Harris Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Union Valley Baptist Church or a charity of your choice. Online Guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net

Published December 9, 2022