Richard R. Bailey

Richard “Dick” R. Bailey, 82, of Cherry Valley, IL passed away at his home after a short illness. Dick was born May 3, 1943, in Beloit, WI the son of Meral and Bernice (Watson) Bailey. He attended Beloit Memorial High School graduating in 1961, and later joined the U.S. Army. Dick married the love of his life, Patricia “Pat” Nelson on May 23, 1964.

Dick was the co-owner, along with Richard Spades, of Boring Inc., a precision boring and milling shop that operated for many years in Eastrock Industrial Park. Growing up, Dick treasured summers spent in Richland Center, WI. Later in life, he continued making memories at his cabin on Bass Lake in northern Wisconsin. He enjoyed building and remodeling projects, garage sales, and his daily trips to Menards. Most of all, Dick loved the time he spent with his family. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

Dick is survived by his wife, Pat; children, Shayna (Tim) Foley, Sara Bailey and Ryan Bailey; grandchildren, Meghan Foley, Jacob Foley, Tyler Foley, and Layne Fox; great- granddaughter, Maleah Failla; sister, Judy Neumann; sisters-in-law, Carol Bailey and Lorraine Halderson; many nieces and nephews; good friends, Pat and Donny Rasmussen, and Charlie, the dog they loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Meral and Bernice Bailey; brothers, Vernon, Lee, and Kenny; sister, Retha.

The family extends a special thank you to OSF Hospice and especially his favorite nurse, Lisa C., for the compassionate care provided.

A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring of 2026. Cremation rites entrusted with Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Dick’s name to OSF Hospice, 9951 Rock Cut Crossing, Loves Park, IL 61111.