Lebanon High's Jayden Bailey, 'our shining star', remembered after death

The 17-year-old basketball player's impactful life was cut short after a nearly four-year battle with cancer.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Jayden Bailey, a 17-year-old basketball player at Lebanon High School in Tennessee, passed away after a nearly four-year fight with cancer. Despite his health challenges, Bailey made a lasting impact on his teammates, coaches, and community through his fearlessness, selflessness, and unwavering faith. Even in his final days, Bailey continued to inspire others with his positive attitude and refusal to give up.

Why it matters

Bailey's story resonates with many, highlighting the power of perseverance, community, and the lasting legacy one can leave, even in the face of adversity. His life and death have prompted reflections on the true meaning of heroism and the importance of cherishing every moment.

The details

Bailey was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, in June 2022. Despite having his left arm amputated and the cancer spreading to his stomach, he returned to the basketball court in November 2025, scoring a 3-pointer, blocking a shot, and making a steal in the season opener. Bailey's fearlessness and selflessness inspired his teammates and the community, even as he faced blood clots on his lungs and fluid on his heart.

  • Bailey was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in June 2022.
  • His left arm was amputated due to the cancer in August 2025.
  • Bailey returned to the basketball court in November 2025, about a month after cancer was found in his stomach.
  • Bailey passed away on February 18, 2026.
  • His funeral service was held on March 1, 2026, with over 1,000 people in attendance.

The players

Jayden Bailey

A 17-year-old basketball player at Lebanon High School in Tennessee who passed away after a nearly four-year battle with cancer.

Jett Epperson

Jayden Bailey's best friend and Lebanon High School basketball teammate.

Jim McDowell

The head basketball coach at Lebanon High School who referred to Bailey as a hero during his funeral service.

Michael Ruttlen

The pastor at New Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church who spoke at Bailey's funeral service and said he was not just a hero, but a legend.

London Elie

Jayden Bailey's mother.

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What they’re saying

“On the surface, I didn't have a doubt in my mind he was going to beat it. But deep down, I knew his time was coming to an end, so it was too hard for me to say those words. I really try to avoid that word.”

— Jett Epperson, Jayden Bailey's best friend and basketball teammate (The Tennessean)

“Babe Ruth said that heroes die. We're not looking at a hero. We are looking at a legend. He will continue to live. Death didn't win.”

— Michael Ruttlen, Pastor, New Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church (The Tennessean)

“He just showed people that, no matter your situation, you can always look past it, be optimistic and just live life to the fullest. That's what he showed Lebanon as a community, and Wilson County.”

— Josiah Chea, Jayden Bailey's friend and basketball teammate (The Tennessean)

“Even though I'm older than him, I looked up to him.”

— Eli Tesfahiwot, Jayden Bailey's friend (The Tennessean)

“He loved people. He never met a stranger − from a 5-year-old kid to an 85-year-old man. JB made us all feel at ease when talking to him.”

— Jim McDowell, Lebanon High School basketball coach (The Tennessean)

What’s next

The Lebanon High School basketball team continued their playoff run, with many believing Jayden Bailey's spirit was with them every step of the way.

The takeaway

Jayden Bailey's life and legacy serve as an inspiration to his community and beyond, showcasing the power of resilience, compassion, and the lasting impact one person can have, even in the face of unimaginable challenges. His story reminds us to cherish every moment and to strive to live with the same fearlessness and selflessness that defined Bailey's life.