William Charles "Bill" Bailey

1948 - 2021

William "Bill" Charles Bailey

Eden — William "Bill" Charles Bailey, of Eden, passed away and went to live with the Lord on October 28, 2021.

Services for Bill will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 31, 2021 at North Spray Christian Church. Military honors will be rendered by the Rockingham County Veterans Honor Guard and the US Army National Guard. The service will be held outside and followed by a visitation with the family.

Bill was born in Leaksville on November 30, 1948 to William C. and Elizabeth T. Bailey. Bill was a 1967 graduate of John Motley Morehead High School. He went on to graduate from Rockingham Community College in 1969 and ECPI in 1973. Bill honorably served his country in the United States National Guard for six years. He owned and operated Bailey's Exhaust and Service Center for over thirty years in Eden, where he earned a reputation as honest and fair businessman. Bill was an active member of North Spray Christian Church, where he served for many years as deacon.

Bill married his high school sweetheart and life partner of more than 50 years, Elizabeth DeHart Bailey, on November 27, 1970. From there Bill and Beth built a strong marriage and bond over those 50 plus years that will carry on beyond his passing. Their love and commitment to one another shaped their lives and those of their children. Bill is also survived by his three children, Stephen C. Bailey, Ashley E. Bailey Long (and husband, Zachary Long) and Bryan M. Bailey (and wife, Brandie Bailey). Furthermore, he is survived by his six beautiful granddaughters, Cecelia Bailey, Madison Long, Savannah Bailey, Tyler Anne Bailey, Aubrey Bailey and Bailey Long, his two brothers, Jimmy Bailey and Timothy Bailey, his sisters-in-law, Lynne D. Young, and husband Bernie Young, Karen Nolan and by his four nephews and two nieces.

Bill loved spending his time and was the happiest when he and Beth were at their second home together on Topsail Island. Anyone that knew Bill knew he was happiest when he was working outside or tinkering on projects. Even after retirement, he always found ways to stay active and keep busy. He loved and doted on his six granddaughters, each of whom had their "Papa" wrapped around their fingers. Bill never met a stranger and would always take the time to speak and say hello to everyone. He was well respected in his community of Eden, of which he was a proud member. This is certainly evident by the many friends he leaves behind, each of whom had an impact on his life and certainly vice-versa. Bill will be remembered by his family as their Superman and his passing leaves a huge void in all of our hearts. His wide smile, selflessness and outgoing personality made an indelible mark on all that knew him well.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com.