SHERIFF DAVID BAILLIE
After Sheriff McLeod resigned to go to Tallahassee, David Baillie, Jr., was appointed in 1955 to fill the remaining term. David Baillie was born in Tarpon Springs, Florida in 1919. He graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Agriculture. In 1943 he came to Marion County as the county’s agricultural agent. In June of 1944 David Baillie was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Naval Reserve. He served in the Pacific and was assigned to the Pacific Amphibious Fleet.
Upon his discharge David Baillie returned to Marion County and became the General Manager of the Southeastern Fat Stock Show and Sale, Inc. In 1950 he was appointed Marion County Agricultural Agent and was serving in that capacity at the time of his appointment as Sheriff.
Sheriff Baillie was defeated in the 1956 election by F. L. McGehee, and he left office in January of 1957. Sheriff Baillie reflected in later years that F. L. had gone out and campaigned for the Sheriff. He said that he didn’t know he was actually supposed to campaign for the office, and that F. L. was the first to run a modern campaign.
Sheriff Baillie was able to add deputies and update equipment.
After serving as Sheriff, David Baillie became involved in real estate and also became the first licensed bail bondsman in the county. David Baillie continued to be an active community figure. He was active in several service organizations including The Lions Club, the VFW, American Legion, and instrumental in establishing and promoting the southeastern youth fair.
His wife Curtis Baillie continued to work for the Sheriff’s Office until her retirement in 1979. When she retired, she was in charge of the Sheriff’s Civil Division, and was a recognized expert in civil process throughout the state.
David continued to be a much beloved and cherished friend of law enforcement throughout the rest of his life. He passed away of natural causes in 2005 and was eulogized as an outstanding member of the Community.