About Us: Honoring the Legacy of Bishop Obadiah Bailey


At Beacon of Hope Mission Centre, we honor the life and legacy of Bishop Obadiah Bailey—affectionately known as OB, Will, Pastor, Gray Beard, and Mose. Bishop Bailey was more than a leader; he was a beacon of hope, a mentor, teacher, counselor, and a friend to all who crossed his path. A man of unwavering faith, humor, and boundless compassion, he dedicated his life to empowering others and building lasting relationships grounded in God’s love.

Born in Mount Vernon, St. Mary, Jamaica, on March 2, 1947, OB grew up in a family of twelve, where faith was woven into every aspect of life. As a young man, he was actively involved in church, laying a foundation that would later shape his mission. Following his early education, he moved to Kingston to train as an electrician and later pursued further studies in the United States, establishing a successful career and deepening his commitment to service.

In 1967, OB met his beloved Iona, and together, they built a life rooted in love and faith. Married in 1969, their journey was blessed with two children, Phillip and Mellonie. Their family grew to include a son-in-law, Wesley, and three granddaughters. Though Phillip passed away shortly before OB, the family remains united in carrying forward OB’s legacy of love and faith.

OB’s life changed dramatically on October 1, 1981, after a severe electrical accident that nearly claimed his life. This incident marked the beginning of his mission to serve God with renewed purpose, transforming him into what he called a “Man on a Mission.” His spiritual journey took him from Miami’s Parkway Baptist Church, where he was deeply involved, to mission work in South America, and ultimately back to his roots in Jamaica. There, he heeded God’s call to establish a ministry in Mount Vernon, laying the foundation for what would become Beacon of Hope Mission Centre.

With a heart for service and a passion for building both people and places, OB used his skills and faith to touch thousands of lives globally. His commitment extended beyond his immediate community, from building churches in South America to supporting local communities, OB’s influence knew no bounds. He had a unique gift for making people laugh, finding joy even in adversity, and always urging others to trust in God’s purpose.

Bishop Obadiah Bailey’s legacy at Beacon of Hope lives on as we continue his work, following his example of faith, love, and service. As Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” OB’s life was a testament to this truth, and his legacy of faith, encouragement, and laughter remains a guiding light in our mission.

Behind Every Leader: Celebrating the Heart and Support of the Woman of Mission


Blessed by God, we have two amazing children and three wonderful grandchildren who keep us laughing and inspired. Family is everything to us, and we’re grateful for the time we get to spend with our big extended family and close friends. Sharing love, joy, and encouragement is at the heart of who we are.

For over 20 years, I ran a daycare, caring for and teaching little ones, which brought me so much joy. It’s a blessing to nurture young minds and see them grow. Though we were both born and raised in beautiful Jamaica, we moved to the United States in 1970 to create new opportunities for our family and fulfill our purpose.

Our Calling

In 1998, after my mother passed, I felt God calling me back to my hometown in Jamaica. With Iona by my side, we returned to the hills of St. Mary, Mt. Vernon, determined to serve and uplift our community.

Today, we’re missionaries working to bring hope, encouragement, and positive change to the place that shaped us.

The Future Leaders of Beacon of Hope Mission Centre


In June 2024, Bishop Obadiah Bailey and his beloved wife, Iona, entrusted their daughter, Mellonie Warren, and son-in-law, Wesley Warren, with the honor of carrying forward the mission and legacy of Beacon of Hope Mission Centre. This baton of leadership was passed with deep faith, love, and dedication to ensuring that the center’s mission continues to flourish.

Following Bishop Obadiah’s passing on July 24, 2024, Mellonie and Wesley have stepped into their roles with a vision rooted in the values that Bishop Obadiah lived by—faith, compassion, service, and unwavering hope. As they continue the work he began, they are committed to inspiring and uplifting the community with the same heart and dedication. Their goal is to honor Bishop Obadiah’s legacy by empowering the next generation, fostering spiritual growth, and ensuring that Beacon of Hope remains a place of comfort, guidance, and joy.

Under Mellonie and Wesley’s leadership, Beacon of Hope Mission Centre will continue to grow as a beacon of light, nurturing future leaders, and expanding the reach of its community programs. They aim to support children, youth, and families in becoming positive change-makers, impacting Jamaica and beyond.

As the legacy continues, the Beacon of Hope Mission Centre stands strong, honoring the memory of Bishop Obadiah Bailey and looking ahead with optimism and determination to serve as a lasting pillar of hope.