Roland C. Bailey

Roland C. (Buddy) Bailey, 85, of Roanoke, Va., went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Monday, August 2, 2010. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Bessie Edmonds Bailey, of Roanoke Rapids, N.C. He leaves his beloved wife of 51 years, Betty Bennett Bailey, formally of Fulton, Ky.; also a son, Roland David; and daughter, Mikki Wykle and her husband, Elmer, their son, Eric, and their daughter, Tracy, granddaughter, Laney, all of Frankford, W.Va.; two nieces, Barbara Garner, of Roanoke Rapids, N.C., and Kathy Bennett, of Wilksboro, N.C.; nephew, Michael Bailey, of Raleigh, N.C.; several great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and many special friends including his "best friend," his poodle, Alex. Roland was a veteran of the United States Army serving his country in France during the World War II conflict. He was formerly a textile designer, before spending many years working with his wife ministering in several children's homes, including Union Mission, Charleston, W.Va., Joy Ranch, Hillsville, Va., Baptist Children's Homes, Thomasville, N.C., and Salem, Va., and Memphis Boys Town, Memphis, Tenn. Three of Roland's great loves and passions were his art, playing his mandolin and working with all children. He used his God given talent both in music and art ministering in nursing homes. He especially loved doing chalk talk programs. "Buddy" as many friends knew him was a member of the "Gospel Gentlemen." He personally wrote and recorded several gospel songs with the group. The family wishes to express their thanks for the many kindnesses shown to them during Roland's illness; especially to their pastors, their church family of Community Faith in Roanoke, Good Samaritan Hospice, Community Bible Study Group and all the friends for their prayers, cards, calls and meals during this very difficult time. Services to be announced for a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Community of Faith Church, 5343 Fallowater Lane, Roanoke, Va. 24018 or to a charity of choice in Roland's memory. Arrangements cared for by Family Choice Funerals & Cremations, 4922 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke, Va., 540-491-9994. Please sign guestbook for Roland at www.familychoicefunerals.com "Your Family...Your Choice... Our Experience and Value"