William L. "Willie" Bailey

October 6, 1942 - March 13, 2019

William Lowell “Willie” Bailey, age 76 years, a resident of the Eddyville community, passed away Wednesday, March 13, 2019, at his home. Willie, as he was affectionately known to family and friends, was born October 6, 1942 in the family home in Pope County Illinois. He was the son of Van and Essie (Parsons) Bailey. Willie was united in marriage to Brenda Richardson on July 31, 1982 in Elgin, Illinois. She preceded him in death on May 12, 1995. Survivors include: his children – Larry Bailey of Alabama, Gary Bailey of Wisconsin, Jeff Bailey of Eddyville, and Kristine (Timothy) Rogers of Eldorado; 13 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; a sister – Kay (Charlie) Peppersack of Harrisburg; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Willie was preceded in death by: a son – Jimmy Bailey; a grandson – Jimmy Bailey, Jr. and a brother and sister-in-law – Kenny and Mamie Bailey. Willie was hardworking and had been employed as a carpenter and truck driver. He was also a gifted automotive mechanic and auto body repairman. Willie had a passion for music and was a talented guitarist. He played the steel, lead, bass and rhythm guitar. Willie cherished his family and particularly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He attended the Cedar Grove Social Brethren Church as well as Sulphur Springs Missionary Baptist Church. Willie is remembered for his love of going out to eat. He especially liked to go to KFC or the Golden Corral and share a meal and visit with his family. Willie was a proud mason and member of Eddyville Masonic Lodge # 672 A.F. & A.M. The family will receive relatives and friends Tuesday, March 19, 2019, from 5 PM - 7 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Masonic rites will be accorded at 7 PM Tuesday by Eddyville Masonic Lodge # 672 A.F. & A.M. The funeral service will immediately follow the Masonic rites. Pastor Jerry Wells will officiate. Private interment at a later date will be in the Boulden Cemetery near Eddyville. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Illinois Chapter, 320 East Walnut Street, Suite A, Carbondale, IL 62901 www.alz.org or to the Boulden Cemetery Fund c/o Bailey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 695, Vienna, IL 62995.