Linda McMahan Long Bailey

Linda McMahan Long Bailey, 76, was welcomed into the arms of her Savior on December 17, 2025. Linda's life exemplified what it meant to be a Christian. She had a sweet, loving spirit and was always ready to forgive any wrong, encourage the brokenhearted, and pray for the needs of others. Linda's qualities of compassion and empathy were readily displayed in her years as a nurse. She was a gifted Bible teacher and she began as a child using her beautiful singing voice to praise and glorify her Lord. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Jack and Nell McMahan; first husband, Rev. Odis "Buddy" A. Long Jr., with whom she worked side by side ministering to several Knoxville area churches; son-in-law, Bill Tabit; brothers-in-law, Bob Bales, Albert Jenkins, Fred Chorn, and David Steele; sisters-in-law, Judy Long, and Carolyn Chorn. She leaves behind her husband, Larry Bailey; daughter, Stephanie Garrett Tabit; grandchildren, Caleb (Sierra) Garrett, Lakin (Shelton) Lilley, Addison Ellis, and Sophie Ellis; great-grandchildren, Lariah Ash, Ayden Lilley, Hudson Lilley, and Gracie Whittier; sisters, Kay Bales, Janice (Charles) Dockery, and Jean (Ray) Kitts; sisters-in-law, Carolyn Bailey, Barbara Jenkins, Peggy (Perry) Price, and Marilyn Steele; brother-in-law, Gary Bailey (Penny); two very special friends, Don and Becky Crippen; and several nieces and nephews who dearly loved their Aunt Linda. The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Rose Funeral & Cremation – Broadway, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM, officiated by Paul Dockery and Kenny Bales. On Monday, December 22, 2025, family and friends will gather at Rose Funeral & Cremation – Broadway for an 11:15 AM procession to Piney Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, where a graveside service will be held at 12:00 PM. Rose Funeral & Cremation - Broadway is honored to serve the Bailey family.