William L. Bailey Obituary

I love and miss you dad, I wish I had more time with you it hurts to know I don't remember you at all really. I can't put a voice to your name besides the voice box in my Daddy Bear stuffed animal I wish I could sit with you for one day and laugh and talk and tell you how far I've come in life I owe it all to you dad. Without you guiding me and watching over me everyday I wouldn't have been able to do it. We will meet again someday I promise❤

Hello,

We apologize for being so late in expressing our deepest condolences to you and your family. We want you to know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this holiday season and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of William L. Bailey III US Army Specialist.

We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families, friends and others who support our mission.

We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

May your loved ones find peace knowing that you will forever be a true American Hero -- Thank you for your service and sacrifice -- I am but a part of a grateful nation.

Condolences and Best Wishes to the Family and Friends of William. It is with my sincerest hopes and prayers that those close to William find peace in their loss and know that a nation is forever grateful for their sacrifice. God Bless William and his family.

It has been 5 years since you left us Bill. Sometimes it seems like yesterday, others like forever ago. Receiving the news will be forever in my mind. But I know my son, that there will be a day that we will be reunited & what a glorious day that will be!
Until then I will hold onto the memories that I carry.
Love you my son, my soldier, my hero.
Mom

May 25, 2012
To the family and friends of Spc. William L. Bailey:
Always remembering William. "Some gave all."

Bill, I miss you something fierce & wish I could have just one more laugh & hug from you ! I smile at my memories but my heart doesn't know if it wants to be happy or if it wants to point out the hole that is there. I will get to see you again someday, but for now, the memories will have to be enough.
I love you; you weren't just my cousin, you were also my little brother, my "kid", and my friend.
Love, Mar

Wow! Five years Bill. I still get tears when this time of year rolls around. You were taken shortly before returning to Dee and your children. You must be so proud looking down and watching them and your beautiful grandchildren grow. I knew that you had finally found your soul mate in Dee and it breaks my heart you were separated so soon. I think about you still and pray for your family. They will never stop missing you. Neither will Buddy and me.

As it approaches the 5th anniversary of Bill's passing, please allow me to tell you that Bill and soldiers like he are in my thoughts and prayers. I read these entries in this guestbook and wish I knew him. I am glad that he is getting the recognition that he deserves. For the family, I wish there was something I could say or do to help make you feel better. All I can do is pray so I hope you believe in that.

To the families of our American Heroes,

I want to thank each of you for your personal
sacrifices on behalf of my family and America.
May God comfort your souls and bring peace in
your hearts that your loss is not in vain.
God Bless our valiant warriors families in the
ages to come.

RIP courageous ones!
Psalm 25:20

A greatful Veteran
MSgt USAF (Ret)
Vietnam 64,65,66,68-6

So dad, I'm sure you would be happy to know i will be going to see everyone this summer, Mariah will be with me also. This is a time i wish you were here so i could see you and so you could meet my precious little girl, But let it be know she will know who you are i show her pictures of you every day and say "thats you grandpa bill" and i tell her what your like. When i talk about you all she does is smile! Its kinda like she already knows you and has see you before. I can tell she loves you even though she has never even seen you before! I love you and miss you alot and cant wait for the day where we shall see each other again!
Your daughter, Maquala.

Another year has passed Bill... and again, I still don't know which day is harder. You left this earth to your heavenly home on the 25th, but the news did not reach us until the 26th.
This year I have been able to look at photos & watch videos of you with more smiles than tears. The ache is still in my heart, but it is easier to smile at the memories knowing that one day I will see you again.
I love and miss you my son.
Mom

To the family and friends of Spc. William L. Bailey:
Please accept my remembrance of William on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Your legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew you and shared in your struggle to protect our country and the ultimate sacrifice you gave so that we can be grateful for what we have. Your family, friends, loved ones and fellow soldiers will stay in my thoughts and prayers.
A Proud Military Mom.

I don't know which day is harder... the 25th or the 26th. I know that you let this earth a Hero on the 25th... but the 26th is the day my heart was ripped apart. I remember both days so clearly.
I know that God has everything in His magnificent plan... even though I can not see or understand.
I do not understand why He took you from Dee, who loves you so much. Why He took you from Cody, Katlynn, Maquala, Billy, & Logan. Why He took you from Jessy and her family. Why He took you from me & Terry... Why you are not here to see your children grow up and your grandchildren born.
You are deeply missed Bill... not just by me, but your entire family. By all your friends.
I love you my son. I miss you.
One day I will see you again. Until that day, my heart will not be fully mended.
Mom

To the family and friends of Spc. William L. Bailey:
Remembering William on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

It was 3 years ago today that you died a Hero! I want you to know that you were always my Hero and you will always be! It is so hard to believe it has been 3 years ago...some days it seems like forever and others it seems like yesterday! This is going to be a tough year because you are going to become a grandpa twice this year. I know the day those babies are born you will be on everyones mind!
We were suppose to grow old together! Life just isn't fair! Logan was suppose to have his mom and dad raise him together! All our plans came to an end 3 years ago...There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about you! Logan started T ball this year! He is growing up so fast and such a sweet child you would be so proud of him!

I love and miss you so much!
Dee

Today I am working on a slideshow of Nebraska KIA's for our annual all school Veterans Day program. I wanted to sign the guest book and assure you that Spc. William L. Bailey will be remembered by all of us on November 11.
Sincerely

Bill, I miss you so much! There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about you! I sit here and think what life would be like had you come home...I wonder how different Logan would be if you were here. Time is going by so fast anymore. It was 3 years ago today that Grandma Vickers passed away. I remember that day as if it was yesterday. I hated telling you over the phone. I have been an emotional wreck lately....I guess it is because we are coming up on the 3 year mark of the last time I saw you in person!!! I would do anything to go back to that time and change the way that last week we had together was. I would of told my job to stick it and spent EVERY second with you!

I love you with all my heart always and forever!!!
Love ya
Dee

Bill i never met you..wish i could have. you were a great friend to my wife kristi and a true blue hero...to your family and your country..we all miss you even the ones that werent blessed to meet you..

Bill, I miss you so much. Your birthday was so hard again this year... they say it gets easier with time... but it seems to keep getting harder. The 25th was so hard this year... it is two years since you left your life on this earth to go to your heavenly home with our Father and Jesus... but it was your 3rd birthday away. And it was not any easier than the first. So much is going on... some wouldn't be if you were here, and some... well, it is hard to say what would be happening.
You are deeply loved and missed my son. Happy belated 32nd birthday. Love, Mom

Love You Dearly & Miss You Bill!

To the family of Spc. William L. Bailey:
William gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Hon,
It is so hard to believe that it was 2 years ago the last time I talked to you on the phone. If I knew that was going to be the last time I talked to you I would of NEVER of hung up that phone that night. I know that we always said that we loved each other EVERY time we talked so At least I was able to tell you that! I would always tell you to be safe. And you always told me not to worry that you would! There was never a day go by that I didn't worry about you! This weekend has been a rough weekend to say the least. I miss you so much! I take each and every day at a time. That is all I can do. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about you! Logan talks about you alot. When ever he has to make a wish it is ALWAYS for Daddy to come back! I just wish I could make his wish come true!

I love you with all my heart always and FOREVER!!!!

Love ya
Dee

Bill,
well it has almost been two years since you left us I cant beleive it. Yesterday was the street dedication and it was really awsome, Dee and and the kids and your family were strong as hard as it was they did good.The street they dedicated to you was perfect right in front of the station ..One of the people who spoke yesterday said it best you never know what a true hero is unless they met you and that is so true, you are a hero Bill I know you dont think of yourself as one but all of us do and we love you and miss you ...

Well, Hon today is the day that they are dedicating a street in your honor! Of course the street chosen was the one in front of Dist 1! I thought that was the most fitting street to be named in your honor! It is going to be a wonderful thing I am planning on staying strong because this is a happy time because you DESERVE this! BUT unfortunately I miss you so much that I don't think I will able to go without crying....

I love you with all my heart always and forever!
Dee

daddy ,
im going to update you what has happened
welll im in nith grd and i have 4 classes
I got a boyfriend on the date of 3/12/09
but dont worry he is the sweetest guy ever he knows you died he has herd soooooo much abt youuu!!!!!!!!!!

i miss you like crazy and the day you died is coming up
so i have been reallyyyyy depressed
b/c of how much i missyou ill be going to nebraska in july on katies bday
i would go in june but like im gettin my permit"maybe" haha


i love you and miss you
i think abt you alwyas

Maquala Wilkins

Original Posting -June 03, 2007 & Once again...
I am grateful to the Lord God above for the precious gift of a cousin as wonderful as Bill. More like a brother and a true friend, he was (and still is) a hero like no other. The time with him here on earth was so short, but for that time I am thankful. I will hold the countless memories in my heart and never let them go. I will miss his smile, his laugh, and his bear hug---but most of all I will miss him ~ the beautiful, selfless, caring person that he was. He left us on a soldier’s mission with his heart and soul full of strength, stamina, and bravery---then he completed his mission~ with honor~ before any of us had the chance to say thank you---I love you--- (one more time) and before any of us were even ready to say good-bye. I miss you Bill --- I Love you! Barb (Bobbie Jean & Erica)

Bill, I think about you daily. I visited you almost every day in your final resting spot until I left Bellevue. Every time I'm back home, I'll keep visiting. Stay like you always have been and still are, a family man!!
~The Latrine Lawyer of 2nd Platoon

Hon, I sit here and keep thinking how 2 years ago I was all excited because you were due to come home in about 2 months. Now I sit here and all that goes through my head is that next month it will be 2 years ago you were taken from me! I miss you so much! Logan misses you A LOT! On Easter your mom had some wish bones that she gave to the kids. Well when Logan was told to make a wish I knew what his wish would be. He ALWAYS wishes for daddy to come back to us. Well he had the biggest piece of the wish bone. So the other day we were sitting here and he asked me when his wish would come true. All I could say was I don't know. It just breaks my heart even more when I hear him say these things.
It still seems like a million years ago the last time I seen you BUT the funeral seems like just yesterday. I look at Logan and he is looking more and more like you each and every day. I also wonder how different he would be right now had you come home to us.
Hon, I love you with all my heart always and forever!
Love ya
Dee

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,300 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

Merry Christmas Bill. I really miss you. They say it gets easier as time goes on... and I guess in someways it does. But especially at times like this... the holidays and family times, it still hurts as much as the day I found out you were gone.
I have spent a lot of time this week reflecting on Christmases past... especially when you were a kid, Logan's age... our Christmases after Terry came into our lives...
I look at Logan and my heart aches that he is growing up without you... just as you grew up without your dad. I look at Dee and my heart aches knowing how hard it is to lose the one you love and planned to spend your life with, raising your kids, watching together as they go through their life events. I look at Jessy and my heart aches... I know you two had a special brother/sister bond. I know how she hurts losing you... unless someone has lost a brother, they don't understand... I look at Terry and my heart aches... I know that he looks at you and Jessy as a son and daughter. He loved you as his own.
For myself... it is something I can't put into words. Yesterday I thought of you all day... and I thought I was doing ok until I pulled into the driveway and saw your truck. I had to pull myself together before I went in. I knew Dee would understand, but I didn't want to upset Logan... and he was so excited about Christmas and Santa... and then he started climbing the walls and hanging from the ceiling (literally!! ~lol~) and thought of how much like you he is!!
I know you and Grandma are spending your day with Jesus, celebrating His birthday... and I know that you are in a glorious place... but you are deeply loved and missed here on earth.
Mom

Well Hon it is Christmas Eve! This will be Christmas number 3 without you here with us. But I wish I could go back to the first Christmas without you because at least we were able to talk to you on that one! I am trying to keep my spirits up for the kids! But as you know I am screaming on the inside! I know that you are watching over us! I have felt your presence here with me a few times this last week. I steped outside with your mom tonight and Logans Daddy star is shinning oh so bright tonight! It was the brightest star out there! There are times that I get caught up in the Christmas Spirit that I am doing ok. But then all of a sudden I will see something and it will remind me of you and I just lose it! I know that you would want me to be happy and not cry. I am trying Hon!!! You know that I would do anything for you! So yes I am trying to stay strong! I miss you with all my heart!

I love you with all my heart always and forever!!
Until we are together again
Love you
Dee

Friday night was the biggest full moon of the year--- And because the majestic oceans are pulled by the massive gravity of the robust sun and the awe-inspiring moon,--- the tides were to be massive as well. The beauty was awesome! While I was enjoying its strength and beauty, the atmosphere reminded me of you and your strength, your heart, your compassion, and your presence and how your embrace of people you loved and life itself was that strong and awesome! Miss You! Love You!

Hon,
It is now 2 weeks before Christmas and I was thinking back 2 years ago. I remember sitting here on Christmas 2006 thinking how that Christmas seemed to be my worst one. I had told the kids I know that this Christmas really sucked but just think next year Christmas will be awesome. Because you would be home by that time. Not knowing that the following Christmas would be even worse! Now I sit here 2 years later and I try to keep my spirits up for the kids. It is hard but I do it for the kids. But I am just screaming on the inside! I miss you so much it hurts! I know that you are watching over the kids and me BUT it is just not the same. I miss your laugh, your smile, your eyes, the way you would look at me when you wanted to go hunting or for a motorcycle ride I just miss EVERYTHING about you! I know you are up there telling me to be strong that is easier said then done. But I am trying my hardest! Some days are better then others. The holidays will always be hard! It has been 2 years since I last seen you in person but it seems a LOT longer then that. But it seems like only yesterday that we had your funeral.

I love you with all my heart always and forever!!! I miss you!!!

Until we are together again
I love you!
Dee

Bill,

I cant believe that it has been over a year since you left us. I miss your smile and Laughter & everything about you.I know that you are watching over your Family and Friends from up above and that one day we will get to see you again . I cant believe how much Logan has grown and Looks JUST LIKE YOU....Everyone says that the pain will Pass in time but I havent found a way for that to Happen.....I come and visit you often your Headstone is Beautiful its exactly like you would have chosen. Dee Has Been so strong she is an amazing person but of course you already know this thats why you married her.....I thank god every day for all the memories of you I have and those are what gets me through the tough times...I still remember the phone call From Dee I was at a baseball Game and she told me she wanted me to hear it from her before I saw it on the news that night ,which I will be forever greatfull to her for that kind of news is never easy to hear but to see it on the News before you know about it is way worse all I kept saying after I hung up the phone was WHY....and this cant be true so I went home and watch the News and saw that it wasnt a Dream that It was REAL and My Heart dropped and all I could think was This isnt Fair you should be comming home to your Wife and Kids and Family and Friends in a few weeks ....Your Funeral was amazing I swear the whole sity of Omaha was there you touched ALOT of Lives Bill. Dee picked out the Best spot for you on a hill overlooking the City just like you would have wanted....Everytime I Hear the Fire trucks go out which is alot since I live right by the Fire station . All I can think of is how much you loved what you did and you would be the First one there I am sure everytime..Well Until we Meet again Know That you are in my Heart and Thoughts each and every day just like your family is I love you And Miss You VERY MUCH !!!!!!

Bill, it's been over a year since you left us. Believe me when I tell you I never forget the day, as you passed on my birthday and every year I will think of you and your sacrifice before I think of myself. I take you with me in a way I never knew possible, but I can't hold that against you because that's just how you were; quiet and subtle but what an impact!

I ride with the Patriot Guard in your honor and wish we could have ridden together but our time together was too short. Your spirit is in the wind that blows against me and I take you with me where ever the road leads. Ride free with the wind, my friend, and I hope other riders who knew you share your breeze.

Hon,
I miss you so much! I know that Logan misses you ALOT!! He started kindergarten now. On his 2nd day of school they had a guy from the Air Force come in to talk. When he walked in the teacher noticed that Logan started to cry. She asked him what was wrong but he wouldn't answer her. So she asked if he was thinking about his daddy and he said Yes. So they took him out to another room and he did puzzles untill the assembly was over. I asked him on the way home what happened and he told me "When the guy walked in he gave me a heart attack and then my head started to feel real bad!" It just rips my heart out to see him hurting this much! I know it had to be the uniform. I know when I see men in uniform it makes me think of you! Not that I don't think of you all the time! I love you, Hon!!! I miss you so much it hurts!!! Some days I sit here and wonder how I will get through these tough times but I know I have to be strong for the kids! I really wish you could be here by my side! With you I was able to do just about anything we wanted to do. People say that as time goes by it will get easier.... Well I don't think it has gotten any easier!

I love you, Hon with all my heart always and forever you are the only man for me!!!
Love ya
Dee

Bill, They say time heals... but the pain is still raw. Maquala starts high school this year. Billy is 10. Logan starts Kindergarten. Cody graduated. Katlynn became a teenager (or as Logan says a turtle - teenagers are turtles - teenage ninja turtles - lol). And then there are your nephews and niece - Noah is going into 3rd grade, Harley in 2nd and Lydia turns 3 next week.
I love and miss you...
Mom

i am sorry that i did not know you. you cousin dougles l courtier is my dad. he was not able to go to you funeral but he was at training to go oversees as well. he was so mad that he could not come but my mom (christen courtier) went for him.

Bill
I know your 31st brithday has past. And the 4th of July is almost here. You always loved coming to our house for the 4th. So we just keep the good memories of you always. And Phil does'nt ride his Harley much at all.Sence he lost his Harley Buddy.With all our LOVE. We miss you so much there is not enough words to say it. And I (Patty) still keep in touch with Dee she is a great women & mother to all 5 chidren.
Patty & Phil
Struthers
(Mom & Dad #2)

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Bailey!

Hey Hon today is your 31 birthday. I have been told that it gets easier with time.... I don't think it is any easier then last year. I think of you each and every day! I miss you so much that it hurts! I have a HUGE hole in my heart that will never ever heal! I find myself sitting and thinking about you all the time. I wonder what things would be like right now if you were here. I wonder how Cody would be right now. How much different Logan would be right now. We took the kids to the cemetary today to put out flowers and balloons. The kids also released balloons so that they could go up to heaven to you.

There for awhile I was having problems remembering all the good things that we did. But as time goes by things are coming back to me. I remember at night when we would go to bed and you would be hot you would make me get up and adjust the fan so that it would hit you. I had to do it because if you got up you wouldn't know if the fan was going to hit you. I remember getting upset with you when you would make me get up in the middle of the night to do that for you. BUT you know what I would do ANYTHING AT ALL to be able to do it for you just one more time! I wish I could have one more hug from you! I miss your eyes your smile your laugh I just miss everything about you!!!

I love you with all my heart always and forever!!! Happy Birthday Hon!!!
I sit and wait for the day that we will be together again!

Love ya
Dee

Happy Birthday Bill. They say that time heals, but this is the second birthday that you have not been here with us and it the pain is as deep this year as last.

31 years ago the Lord blessed me with you... I can close my eyes and see you in my arms that first time I held you. Your thick dark head of hair. And I really did count your fingers and toes! I marveled at how everytime your dad spoke, you turned your head toward his voice. And we laughed when we would feed you because you would have emptied the bottle before we could even think of stopping to burp you!

And then I open my eyes... and I can see you standing in front of me, promising me you will come back, you'll come home.

I miss you. I miss you more than I will ever be able to put into words. The hole in my heart will never heal... never go away... I know that the only way I am getting through this is through the grace of God. I have been blessed with Jessy, all 8 of my grandchildren, Terry, Dee and Damion in my life... but I will always miss you...

I love you Bill.

Mom

Dad,
i miss u so verry much i wish u could b here well i know you are here but i mean in person to see us all grow up but i mostly wish u could be here for bug{logan} so he knows his father like me katie cody and billy but u should know we all miss you ALOT!and no matter what happens and no matter who tells me this and that there will always be that special place in my heart for you and only you! Dee and i just got done crying because we were reading this guest book and that is one way you can tell we miss you!Logan he cant sleep with out his daddy bear or he will freak out!!oh and me and katie will not sleep with out the blankie you gave us but just wanted to say at least this
I LOVE YOU!!! AND MISS YOU!
love always
??maquala marie wilkins!??

Hon,
Tomorrow will be another test for me to go through. I will be picking up Maquala from the airport. I am so happy that she will be here but then I am also worried on how she is going to be with you not here. I have been preparing myself for this day, but everyday has its own challenges. You were always the one when things got rough to make sure everything turned out for the best. But now you are no longer here to stand by my side and help me through these rough times. I know you are watching over all of us and that is how I am making it through each and everyday. I miss you so much each and everyday. I know the hole in my heart will never heal! I am working on the moving forward part. I still feel like there are days that I am just going through the motion. Logan woke up the other night and came in our bedroom and crawled in bed with me. I asked why he came to me and he said "I couldn't find my daddy and it scared me!" It breaks my heart more every time he says things like this. He also told me that he is making sure that I don't get died because he wants me to be with him.
I love you with all my heart always and forever! I know one day we will be together again!
Love ya
Dee

For Our Bill,
Yes he is missed. Every one loved him. His cousin Barb Vickers-Thompsom on 6-02-2008 could not of said it better on how people felt.
Love Bill & His Family
Mom # 2

My dear cousin~~ Bill, I have so many precious memories in my heart that have helped me through this year---I am not saying that the pain is gone---but these memories from when we were very young to recent---have helped me to sometimes laugh when I want to cry. When we lost Uncle Ken and Grandma--- I thought it would be a long time before I felt such a deep loss---a loss that seems to never heal----I was wrong, we lost you right after, and it took so much just to be able to say your name without breaking down. It's equally as hard knowing that Dee & the Kids, Your Mom & Dad, Jess, Damion, & the Kids are feeling this deep pain in a more severe and unimaginable way and there is nothing I can do to take that pain away for them. It has been said many times before---but I will say it again with pride----you have touched so many lives in ways that sometimes cannot even be expressed with words. You had a way of making anyone’s day just by sharing that warm and comforting smile of yours! You found a way every time to make what seemed to be a bad day, evolve into a beautiful moment to be cherished through this journey. Even if the circumstances were truly devastating~~ you couldn’t fix it, however; you made it easier to accept or understand the situation. I learned a lot from you and I thank you for that as well as every time you made me smile, but also, I want to thank you for your sacrifices made in this War against Terrorism—“Operation Iraqi Freedom”, for the ultimate sacrifice you made during the time you served, away from your family and friends, placing your life on the line for a just cause, and the day you lost your life so others could live, so we here back home could be safe one more day. I thank our entire United States Military personnel and their families----for it is the families sacrifice also, when their loved ones leave for war, it is hard for them at home, and when their loved one does not come home---, it is beyond devastating. You are gone, and I am still trying to understand why –why now ---and what is to be learned from your absence, but as I am told---everything happens for a reason, and sometimes, we are not to know why, just that it was time. Miss you ---Love You! Barb (Babsy)

you will be missed

One year ago today I was told of your death. I will never forget that morning when the military came to our door. When I seen the men in uniform at our front door at 8AM I knew it was not good. I started to scream NO NO NO before I even opened the door. When I opened the door and they asked if I was Mrs Bailey all I could do was scream NO NO NO!!! Finally I told them I was and they came in and gave me the news that I did NOT EVER want to hear!!! That was the worst moment in my life when they said that they had reason to believe that you had been killed in Iraq. I know that you are watching over the kids and me and your family. I know you are here with us. I have felt you near me. I miss you, Hon with all my heart. I will always love you. As I had told you so many times You are the only one I want and the only one I need. I know we will be together again someday. So until then I will put all my focus on our children! I will do my best to have Logan grow up and be as fine a man as you were. I love you with all my heart always and forever!!!
Your wife
Dee

Bill, it was a year yesterday that you left us. But today seems even harder, for it was a year ago today that I found out. I will never forget that morning, that day... it felt like my heart had been ripped out. It still feels like a horrible dream. Seeing the pain and sadness in Dee's eyes when she came with the military to tell me, seeing the pain and sadness in Terry and Jessy's eyes when they heard that you you were gone... the pain and sadness in each of your children's eyes. Knowing that your children would grow up and not have you here to teach them, to share those important memories - graduations, weddings, their children being born...
I know some day you will be standing with Jesus to greet me when I come home to heaven. But my days here are emptier without you.
You left us with many good memories. You left us with your legacy in your children. You left an impact in every life you touched, no matter how briefly.
You're an awesome son, father, husband, brother, uncle, friend...
I love and miss you so much... I wait for the day that you give me a hug in heaven. My heart will always have a hole that will never heal or be filled.
Mom

It is so early in the morning. I woke up with you on my mind. Logan looks so much like you and has your smile.Everytime I have him I can't help to think how proud you would be of him. This is suppose to be a day of memories, but it is bitter sweet to some of us. Bill you gave all for us and that makes you a hero, but most of all you made this world a better place. I miss you kiddo. Yes, I will continue to keep intouch with Dee and the kids. You are forever in my heart and on my mind. Love you like a son.

Bill I can't believe a year has passed already. It seems like yesterday that Mom came and told me. I will never forget the pain. The pain is still there and there are times I feel it will overcome me. But I know that you wouldn't want me to live in pain and not live life. Your nephews and niece get me through some days. I swear I will never let them forget you. I miss you so much and I wish you were still with us. Watch over us as I know you will always be in our hearts. I thank God for the many memories I have.

Bill
You have been gone for a year from us now. I fell so emty inside. you was the son I never had. As I have no kids of my own. I just fill as though God has taken 2 sons from me now. As you are the 2nd one he has taken from me. You will always be in my heart.
Love You & Miss You
Mom #2

To The Bailey Family and Friends

YOUR LOSS is The Great State of Nebraska's & America's as well.
I want to take the time to send a few words and Let you know SPC. William "Bill" L. Bailey is remembered as a Hero and you are as well with Prayer for your Loss..
May your Memories with him and of him help to comfort you along with God's care. And be passed on to his son and other family members..
There just is no word's to take away the loss you feel, for that I am sorry...
I thank you for America's freedom and mine and my families because of men and women like your Bill.
God Bless and Keep You in His Peace during these times of Great Loss.

-
The Family Lines of Lt. Presley Neville O'Bannon (A Marine who Raised the first American Flag on Foreign soil, Shores of Tripoli Hero) Proudly Salute: SPC William "Bill" L. Bailey, YOUR & one of Our Special Gold Star Hero's, from Nebraska who gave his all and then gave more! For his extream service and bravery He stands as an Exceptional Man ... Bless those he served with ..
As His Fellow Comrades Stand Guard, Protect and Bless them Lord.
Mostlly be with his Family, his son and wife and parent's and let them know your there and so is Bill!

Proudly a Wife and Daughter of Ret. Navy men
Proud sister, cousin, grand daughter, niece of many that have served...Always a Cornhusker!
Rev. T. O'Bannon Brod (Proud to be from, NE) &
Ret CTMMC Brod

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know William, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008

Visit this link to hear the song.

The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Please contact me and I will email you back a copy of my
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.

Well Hon it was a year ago today the last time we got to talk! I remember the last things we said. I told you I love you with all my heart always and forever. And you said the same back to me. I then told you to "BE SAFE!" and your response was "I will Babe Don't worry!" Life is just not fair. You were suppose to come home in 3 weeks! I wish I could of seen you one more time... Not that it would of made it easier.... I can't believe it is already a year ago. It seems like yesterday that they came to my door. But it seems like a million years ago that I last heard your voice. Even longer the last time I felt you hug me. LIFE JUST ISN'T FAIR!!!

I love you with all my heart always and forever!!! I miss you, Hon!

Love ya
Dee

It has taken me a long time to get to writing this. I didn't know Bill but for 2 weeks where I met him at Camp Hunter Liggett for the 2nd phase of 88M school. He was a great guy. Always had a smile or a kind word. He could always be found at the internet cafe I suppose talking online to his wife back home. We teased him alot about that and being "whipped" He would just smile and nod his head. When the class was over I bid him goodbye and told him to be safe as I knew that he was headed downrange, and we went our separate ways. I found out a couple of months after the fact that he had been killed. I guess it just really recently hit me hard that he was gone. The Army Times recently did a photo spread of all the fallen heroes since 2007, and there his picture was. I just bawled. Im so sorry for your loss. I don't know what else to say but to take things a day at a time. Forget what people tell you about moving on and getting over it. Thats something you will never do. It will get easier I suppose but he will always be in your heart. Im glad that he touched mine. I won't forget him anytime soon. Take care.

SPC Tamara Weber (TX) Active Army

Bill, a year ago this weekend was the last time we talked. You were tired. I was with Dee and Logan buying flowers for our yards at ShopKo.
I was sitting here wondering what I would have said if I had known that would have been our last conversation. Even though we knew that your death in Iraq was a possibility, we never wanted to think of it as ever becoming a reality. I just hope you know how much I loved you. I hope you know that I am sorry for anytime I ever let you down. I always tried to do my best for you and to be there for you… I think you knew that.
I miss you so much. Everyone’s life here has a void where you should be… I miss your smile, your laughter, even your Bailey temper.
Every time I see or hear a motorcycle, I look. I will never forget that smile on your face when you walked in the door to tell me to come out and see your Harley. You had that same, huge smile when you pulled up in your Dodge pick-up too. I keep waiting to see it pull into the driveway and for you to say to Logan “Stay here with Grandma bug, I’m going to go downstairs and talk to Grandpa.”
I love and miss you… so very much.
Mom

To the family and friends of Spc. William L. Bailey, our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. What he has done for our freedom will not be forgotten. May God comfort and bless your family.

Bill, It is hard to believe it is May 1. It seems like forever since we have seen you or talked with you and yet, May 26th, the day they told us that you were gone, seems like only yesterday. Time seems to have no meaning anymore.
May 19th will be 29 years since your dad died... and May 25th will be 1 year since we lost you. I don't like the month of May. It seems to be filled with too much sadness.
I know that you are with the Lord, for the Bible tells us that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, and for that I am grateful, but we miss you so much here - I miss you so much here.
Love you and miss you my son... mom.

Hey Hon! I miss you so much! I can't believe it has almost been a year since you left us. I know that you are missed by ALOT of people. I have some good days but right now I have been having REALLY BAD days! I keep asking what would Logan be like right now if you were here. It is amazing all the things that he remembers about you and what you told him you guys would do when he gets older. I will tell you there are days that I can't wait until I join you BUT I can't join you right now I have to take care of our little guy. He has grown up so fast you would be so proud of him!!! Your mom keeps telling me he is just like you when you were younger!!!
I love you with all my heart always and forever!!!
Love ya
Dee

It is so hard to believe that almost a year ago you left us for good. I see so much of you in Logan. What a great little guy he is. I miss you so much and I know Dee is so lost without you. Rest in Peace Bill. Love ya like a son. Terry

Hey Bill. I find myself walking around the house just talking to you. There are times I can feel you here. I miss you so much and can't believe it has been almost a year. Love ya and miss ya soooooooo much! Your little sister.

Peace be with you.

Well hon it has been almost one year ago that you left us here on earth. It seems like yesterday that I got the message. It seems like a million years ago that I last hugged you or kissed you or talked to you. I feel like I am going back down hill. The days are getting LONGER for me I sit and think what would Logan be like if you would of came home. I wonder how my life would be right now if you would of came home. I am once again taking life one minute at a time. I find myself asking the why questions agian. I know that I still won't get the answers that I want but I ask them anyways. I miss you so much that it hurts! You will always be the only one for me! I love you hon with all my heart always and forever!!!
Love ya
Dee

Mr. Bailey, not a day goes by that I don't think of you, my feelings are two fold; one is sorrowful for the loss I feel and the other is one of joy for having known you at all. I know that the Mr. Bailey I know would say to get rid of the sorrow but you were/are such a wonderful spirit that a shadow is cast from not having you around. I miss you and love you my friend. I am also sorry I don't get around to see Dee and your family like I should. They are such wonderful people and I don't want them to ever think they are forgotten. Your second platoon family holds a specail place in their hearts not only for you, but them as well. If there is ever anything I can do for them I hope you will help guide them to ask me.

SFC Hanson David K

Bill
Just wanted to say I love & miss you & Happy St Patty's Day.
Patty Struthers
( Mom # 2)

Bill
I love and miss you so much. I think we got a lot closer when you met Dee our freind ship started long berfore that. Phil started the Harley Davison on Saturday. And I could only think of you. You loved to go rideing. And you bought your first H.D.from us. If we had a son we would want him to be just like you.
Patty Struthers
(Mom # 2)

Bill,

I knew you for such a short time. But a cousin of mine went to Iraq and I prayed every day for him and you to be safe. I emailed you once and you answered. When I found out about what happened, I was sick...

You touched every life you came in contact with, your smile, your irrepressible sense of humor, your warmth and your character.

You ARE missed.

My condolences to your wonderful family, may they find peace with your memories under your watchful eye.

-A co-worker at Life*Com and proud friend.

Hon, I just wanted to let you know that I Love YOU With All My Heart Always and Forever!!! In 2 days it will be our 4 year wedding anniversary. It won't be the first one that you weren't at my side. But at least the last one you were still here and I was able to talk to you. I will miss not getting that card from you, the I love you, and that smile from you. This has been the worst time of my life!!! There are days that I just don't want to get out of bed because I miss you so much!!! But I know that is not how you want me to be(easier said then done). The kids are what keeps me going. If it wasn't for them I don't know where I would be right now. It feels like forever since the last time I heard your voice. I wish my phone would ring and I would answer it and hear you say "Hey Babe"! I would do ANYTHING for just one more day with you!!!! But I know that isn't possible. I will never stop loving you, Hon!!!!
I love you!
Love
Dee

Bill~~ miss you,love you~ Everything is so different; especially after this last year and a half--- and your absence as well as Grandma's, Brad's, Uncle Ken's, Aunt Lonnie's (and all our loved ones) is painful~~ an absence that cannot be filled with anyone or anything---except beautiful memories ---These memories do not fill the voids but somehow relax the pain if only for a while! There are times the memories hurt as well---because of the want to make more, and knowing that it is impossible. "They" (whoever "they" are) ---say--- "You don't know what you got til' it's gone"---well I have news for "them" I always knew---and it hurts like nothin' else when it's taken away! Love You!

Oh Bill. I have no idea what to say. I miss you so much. I love you.
Your little sis

Bill,
It is now 2008. I just wanted to say Thank You. So many of our young women and men have been layed to rest. It will never become easier to accept because your whole life is still ahead of you. We can all still be together in mind and spirit though. I know that everytime something happens to us down here, you will be celebrating along with us up in Heaven. We will all be together soon. Keep smiling!!!! Mary

It is 2008... 2007 seems like a dream. I am hoping that 2008 will bring healing and blessings to us ~ your family and friends.
My heart will always have an empty place now that you are gone... it will always have an ache ~ even in joy.
You are my first born. You are my only son. You brought smiles and joy, you brought tears, anger and pain... and I loved you every moment.
I know when I get to heaven, you and your Grandma Vickers will be standing right there with Jesus to greet me...
Love you ~ mom

Well here we are the 2nd year I started out with out you at my side. The first year I at least got to talk to you. And at that time I didn't think I was gonna make it through the year with out you. Now I have to make it the rest of my life without you! It is so hard not having you here to talk too. I have people that tell me I just need to get over it and move on. Well if they have never been in my shoes they don't know how harsh that statement is!!! I can't JUST get over it! You were my world my everything!!! I will never JUST get over you! I have to move on for the sake of the kids! I will live my life for them now! I just wish people would understand how hard my life has become with out you at my side. Everyday I get up and I go through the motions most of the time my heart is not in it. I look at your picture and just ask WHY WHY WHY???? I know we will be together agian someday. I love you Hon with all my heart always and FOREVER!!! Well now all I can hope for is that 2008 goes better then the last 2 years!
I love you!!! Until we are together agian you will always be in my heart and on my mind!
Your loving wife
Dee

Well Bill the new year has started, it's been a rough 6 months. But I know you're in a better place.
Joe and Cindy got married last night I know from our talks how you were looking forward to seeing Logan in his tux but he ended up not being here at all. It was a beautiful wedding, I know you and Jim were watching from above.
We Love You Bill

Bill, We never met, but my sister, Patty Struthers says you're OK and that's alright with me, the world is a safer place because of you and the other fallen HEROES, Thank You, from my heart.

Bill, Christmas is past... in a few days 2008 will be here.
I would look at the kids on Christmas and smile at their joy... but my heart was sad. I miss you, my son. The only think that kept me going was that you celebrated Christmas with Jesus Himself... and I know that you are filled with joy, because in heaven there are no tears and no pain, no sadness.
Craig and Jen Cooper's baby boy was born the day after Christmas... and his name is Bailey Lee. You made such an impact on so many peoples lives. His birth is like a light shining in the darkness.
I miss you Bill, your smile, your voice... your hugs.
Mom

Hey Hon,
Well today it has been 7 months since you were taken from us, it is also Christmas. It has been the worst Christmas of MY LIFE! I was strong for the kids. I went through all the motions, without feelings except for sadness! It was so hard to watch the kids open thier presents without you! This was suppose to be a special Christmas not my worst one. Everyone tried to make it a somewhat good Christmas. But my heart wasn't in it. My heart was with you!!! I miss you so much. In just 2 days we would of been together for 7 years. I was looking forward to that plus a whole lot more with you. I could not bring myself to tell anybody to have a Merry Christmas BUT I will tell it to you. Merry Christmas Hon!!! I love you with all my heart always and forever!!!
Love
Dee

It is so hard to believe that you been gone for over a year. I know how much you looked forward to givin me greif over turning 49. Logan sat on my lap today and said he misses you, it was hard now to cry, I just said me to. You are greatly missed by all of us. You always had a way of making us smile. I miss that the most about you. Until we meet again.

Love,
Terry

Dear Bill
You should have come home today to alot of open arms to give you Big Huges & Kisses. More so from Dee(your loving wife).I went to see your head stone & it is beautiful. It even had a wolfe on it.I know how much you like the wolfe dog. Years ago you brought one to our house to show us,it was a nice looking dog.
Damm we miss you & your smile,& the sparkle in your eyes.
LOVE YOU
Patty Struthers
(Mom # 2)

Well Hon the 755th is home now!! Today was a very emotional day for us. I cried so much today I don't think I can cry anymore. You were with a great bunch of people over there! They all say the same thing about you. They tell me that you always had a smile on your face. I sure do miss that smile!! I miss those loving eyes also! I just miss everything about you!!! I can't believe that it has been over a year ago that we last seen you. Some days it seems like forever since I seen you or even just heard your voice! But May 26th seems like just yesterday! I don't remember much of that day but I don't ever want to go through something like that again. I love you with all my heart always and forever!!!
With Love your wife
Dee

It is hard to believe it has been a little over a year since we said good-bye. Even though we knew there was that possibility that we would not see you again, we didn't believe it would ever be.
Tomorrow I will be honored to meet the soldiers that you lived with and became your other family. Those that I have met have been awesome men and look forward to meeting the rest.
I am happy that they are returning home safely to their families. I am sad that you will not be with them. My heart aches and I know that after tomorrow it will be even more real... that it will truly hit me that I will never again see your smile ~ at least here. I have to wait til I get to heaven to get another hug...
I love and miss you.
Mom

Hey Hon,
I miss you so much!!! Well we are coming up on one year for the last time I seen you, touched you, hugged you and kissed you. It seems so long ago!!! There are days that I sit here and still think that it is a bad dream! Then I look up at your pictures and just start to BAWL!!! I have been trying to keep myself as busy as I can here lately. Because when I am at home with just Logan I sit and cry. I have seen alot of things lately that just makes my heart stop. I seen a truck with military vechiles on it, then I seen some guys on base in the flight suits that I sent to you. Those things just take my breath away and stops my heart. You are on my mind 24/7. I miss everything about you!!! You ment the world to me! Now I feel like my world has crashed down up on me. Thank God we had Logan! I don't know where I would be without him. Logan talked to you on Halloween, I wish I was able to see you and talk to you like he does. I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking about you.
I love you always and forever with all my heart!!! We will be together again someday but until then I will be here taking care of our kids.
Love you
Dee

Bill
Sorry I didn't write sooner but I guess its my way of dealing with you being gone.I don't know if I should cry,chew you out,or both.But you are loved and missed alot,all the time.I still have the 4th of july teddy bear that you gave me.I leave it out all the time now.I miss our 4th of july,s with you.
Love Aways
Patty Struthers
(Mom # 2)

Bill,
It is hard to believe it has been almost six months. I look at Logan and see so much of you in him. Dee is doing a great job holding it together. I know how much she misses you, how much we all miss you. Logan talks to you all of the time. He tells me you are his best friend and he misses you. I do to. You were a good man, friend, father and husband. I feel blessed to have known you. Rest in peace until we meet again. Love, Terry

Hey Bill! It's been a while since I wrote anything down in words since you left us. I am still having a hard time with all of it. I have very special memories of us to carry with me, but sometimes it's harder with them. I remember when we were in highschool all the crap we should've gotten in a lot of trouble for, but somehow got away with it all!!! I'm sure you are still laughing at me about the stupid haunted house incident! I'll never forget the way you helped me and everyone around you. My marriage may not have survived if it wasn't for you and your encouraging words. I thankGod for sharing you with us for a very short 29 years. I know that you hear all of us talking to you when we need a shoulder or some guidance. One sweet day we will all meet again and what a reunion that will be. Until then...the memories will not leave us and you will be held close to our hearts.
Love
Esther

Hey Hon,
I sure do miss you!! I can't believe it has been 4 months that you left us here on earth. My 40th birthday is coming up and you won't be here to give me a hard time. I know how much you were looking forward to my 40th birthday. It is going to be a hard day for me. I will not have a happy birthday that is for sure. It will be the worst birthday of my life.
Well your headstone finally made it. It is Beautiful!! I know that you would of loved it. I think if you could of designed it yourself you would of done what we did. I bawl everytime I go up to the cemetary.
I still wish that in Dec you will get off that bus and say "Gotcha I am still here!!!" I don't even think I would be mad at you I would be just so excited to see you. But I know that won't be happening.
I miss you Hon!! I love you with all my heart always and forever!!!!
With Love
your wife
Dee

One year ago tonight, you promised me you would come home. When you gave me that hug and told me that, there was something in my heart that said that you wouldn't be able to keep that promise.
I love you and miss you Bill... Mom

Revelation 21:4 "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."

Hey Hon,
Just a little note to let you know we are thinking about you. Logan turned 4 yesterday. It is so hard to believe it was a year ago today that you had to go stay in Ashton. I remember having to take you to the armory it was so hard to leave you there. And I knew that I would see you again the next day. I have so many regrets about not taking more time off when you told me too. I know I can't go back and change things. I never ever thought that this is the way you would come back from Iraq. I MISS YOU SO MUCH!!!
Logan told me that he is going to be a fireman just like his daddy when he grows up. You would be so proud of him.
Your headstone should be in place in the next week or so. I still can't believe that I am looking forward to getting my husbands headstone.
I love you with all my heart always and forever. You are all I ever wanted and ever needed!!!
Love Ya
Dee

This is kinda silly, but I drove by a Taco Johns the other day and just started crying. Bill and I went to Taco Johns alot when we worked at Rochester together. I really miss the good feeling you gave to everyone. It did't matter what kind of day we were having, when you walked into the room and gave us that smile, it made the day not seem so bad at all. I wish I could go back and keep in touch with you a little better, but we all know we cant go back in time. Thankyou for being such a great person. I bet you did't know how many people out there loved you huh! Keep watch over us up there.
love ya Bill
Kristi

Uhhh, I feel like crap Bill! The last time I felt like this was the night you died, before we found out. I know everybody is fine, but I keep thinking somebody is going to call with bad news. I took Mom to get a tattoo Saturday night. Can you believe it!?! She got a cross with your name above it and John 15:13 below it. It looks so good. I wish she didn't have to get it. This week will be a year ago that you left for training. I miss you so much.

Well Billiam it's been 3 months since we received that heart breaking phone call from Dee telling us you were gone and she needed us to come right away.
I thought when we received the call 5 years ago when Jim took his life we'd never get a phone call like that again, OH God how it hurts.
Jack and I Loved you like a son so it's like we've lost 2 sone in 5 years. You know I love you because I tell you and Jim every morning on my way to work.
We Love and Miss you and Jim Mom and Dad G.