The world has lost a shining light, and heaven has gained a blessed believer.  Joseph Donald Fail lived an abundant life and brought joy to all.  On February 13, 2022, Jody passed in the comfort of his home in Bay Springs, MS, and he now is rejoicing with his beautiful wife, Nancy, in heaven.

Jody was a loving husband.  He married Nancy, the love of his life, in 1966.  He and Nancy were soulmates who loved their family and dedicated their lives to love, laughter, and living life to the fullest.  They cherished their time together, loving and supporting each other through all of life's challenges and blessings.

He was a devoted father who raised daughters, Joey and Brandi, with zeal and adoration.  Jody was a dedicated Christian who taught his family to love the Lord.  He calmed their fears and encouraged them throughout each day, celebrating their victories and propping them up in defeat.  He was their biggest advocate.  He and Nancy never missed an opportunity to be cheering spectators for both their children and grandchildren.

Jody also was a dedicated member of Bay Springs Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years.  His influence and guidance at church will long be remembered.  He loved the Lord and his church family.  He thanked God daily for Jesus Christ, his forgiveness, and life's blessings.  Jody graciously lived life.

Jody was the youngest son of Donnie and Estelle Fail, born in Bay Springs on October 24, 1937.  He lived his entire life in his beloved hometown and supported his community in numerous ways.  As a child he enjoyed days with his horse, Charlie, exploring around town and throughout the surrounding countryside.  He excelled as an athlete in high school participating in football, basketball, and track.  His abilities as a quarterback earned him a scholarship on the LSU football team.  He enjoyed his time at LSU and graduated with an Electrical Engineering degree. While at LSU, Jody made many dear and lifelong friends, many of whom were his Kappa Alpha brothers. Jody remained an avid LSU fan all his life, cheering for and supporting his Tigers at every opportunity.   Jody also served in the Army National Guard.

After college, his entrepreneurial spirit led Jody to form Joseph D. Fail Engineering Company.  He also was a leader in his family's business, Bay Springs Telephone Company. Jody was an industry leader as the telecom world expanded.  Jody was owner and Chairman of the Board for OmniBank.  He also served on the Board at William Carey University and was dedicated to the school and its vision for growing students in excellence and their Christian faith.

Jody Fail was a special man.  He was blessed, and he was humble.  He was a true gentleman.  He was a strong Christian.  He was thankful.  He was encouraging. His smile will remain in the hearts of all who knew him, and his love will last an eternity.  He taught by his actions. He lived by his faith.   His attitude always was positive.  His smile always was sincere.  His encouragement always was needed.  His generosity always was evident.  He loved lavishly.  He lived fully. And he shared his passion for happiness and life with everyone he met. He leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and encouragement.  He will be greatly missed.

Jody was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Willis Fail; his parents, Donnie and Estelle Fail; his sister, Dell Mayfield; his brother, Charlie Fail.

Survivors include his daughters Joey Fail Garner and her husband James W. Garner, Ridgeland, MS and Brandi Fail Callison and her husband Alan P. Callison, Madison, MS; grandchildren, Jessica Audrey Garner, Joseph Whitley Garner, John Willis Garner, and Caden Joseph Callison.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 from 4:00PM until 6:00PM at Bay Springs Baptist Church in Bay Springs, MS. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 10:30AM at Bay Springs Baptist Church with burial to follow in Bay Springs City Cemetery. Bro. Ed King will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home Of Bay Springs is in charge of arrangements. 601-764-2181

Pallbearers will be James W. Garner, Jessica A. Garner, Joseph W. Garner, John W. Garner, Wayne Buffington, Alan P. Callison, and Caden J. Callison.

Honorary pallbearers will be Kendrick Blakeney, Gary Gordon, Sonny Houston, John Rand, Ray Robinson, and Ricky Ruffin.

Memorial donations may be made to Bay Springs Baptist Church Youth Facilities Fund and William Carey University Missionary Kid Scholarship Fund.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapelbaysprings.com