Norman Leon Bailey

Norman Leon Bailey, 80, of Robinson, IL, passed away on November 4, 2025, at Deaconess Memorial Medical Center in Jasper, IN.

Born on November 13, 1944, in Palestine, IL, Leon grew up on a family farm and learned early the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and simply doing what needed to be done. He graduated from Palestine High School and was later drafted into the United States Army, where he served his country with dedication. After his service, he married Carolyn Pankonien and began working for American Desk in Texas, and in 1974, he returned home to Illinois. He then began a long career with Victor Dana, where he worked for over 35 years until his retirement.

Leon enjoyed a life rooted in simple, everyday joys. He liked playing solitaire on his computer, watching westerns and model trains, and spending time outdoors. He loved to fish and farm and was always willing to lend a hand to others during planting and harvest. He tinkered, helped his son in the garden, and found a quiet joy in tossing a ball with the dog. More than anything, Leon valued time with family—working together, visiting together, and simply being together.

Leon was a longtime and faithful member of Kirk Chapel United Methodist Church, where he was actively involved and once served as a trustee. His faith was steady, humble, and lived out in the way he treated others with patience, gentleness, and a readiness to help.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra (Baker) Bailey, with whom he shared a steady and devoted life since their marriage on June 22, 1986. He is also survived by his children, Robert (Jennifer) Bailey, David Bailey, and Brian (Anita) Bailey; his grandchildren, Teresa, Dominic, Tia, Derek, Darren, Shyanne, and Gabriel; several great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Leonard Bailey (companion Klara Bannon), Donnie (Jean) Bailey, and James (Sherri) Bailey, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Norris and Caroline Bailey; his daughter, Karen Bailey; and his sisters, Janet Pankonien and Loretta Mikeworth.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 8th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Funeral services will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Jim Conlin officiating. Burial will be in the Palestine Cemetery with military honors rendered by the Robinson VFW Post #4549, Robinson American Legion Post #69, and Flat Rock American Legion Post #132. Memorial contributions may be made to “Kirk Chapel Church”, with envelopes available at the funeral home.

For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at https://www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream