Ernest (Ernie) Bailey passed peacefully into paradise Saturday November 2, in the late evening. He was born on August 13, 1934 in the oil fields of Jasper County Indiana, to Forest and Gladys Watkins Bailey.
He married Nyna S. Marsh on September 14, 1974. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, one son, Joshua Bailey, Greensburg, four daughters, Miranda Maxwell, Madison, IN, Daphne Nolan (Wayde) Kokomo, Cindy Jarrett, Greensburg, and Rhia Bailey, Kokomo. Seven grandchildren and 5 great-grands. Sister Barbara Hall, brothers Elmer and Raymond and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters Mildred Rhinehart and Phyllis Hudkins.
He graduated from Fulton High School in 1952. He volunteered for the draft and served in Korea for 18 months as assistant battalion supply sergeant. After discharge he attended Tri State College. In 1957 he went to work for Dean Milk Company. In 1959 he went to work for the United Parcel Service and retired from there in 1990 after 30 years of service mostly he served in Staff Positions. He served several places in the country including Germany.
He retired to Decatur County with his family where he became very active in the community. He served as officer on the American Red Cross board, instrumental in establishing the VITA tax program at First Baptist Church, was a founder of the Agape Center and the TLC center. He was a Gideon and supply person for the Emmaus Community for several years. He was proudest of all being an active long-time member of First Baptist Church where he served on the Deacon Board and as Chair for several years and on the Christian Education Board.
A Memorial Visitation for family and friends will be Saturday, November 9, 2019 from 9:00 am until the time of the Memorial Service at 12:00 pm at the First Baptist Church. Pastor Cliff Bunch and Pastor Steve Wood will be officiating. Memorials may be given to the Gideons International or the First Baptist Church Renovation Fund. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.gilliland-howe.com