FARMINGTON – Shirley E. Bailey, 84 of Farmington, died unexpectedly from a heart attack Friday, Oct. 4, at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.
Shirley was born to Ernest F. And Evelyn D. (Shorey) Harris on Feb. 27, 1935.
She grew up in the small town of Burlington and attended Lee Academy, graduating as a four-year honor student. She later attended Farmington State Teachers’ College and met H. Kenton Bailey, her future husband. They were married in Burlington on May 12, 1953 and made their home in Farmington on the Bailey Hill Dairy Farm.
Shirley worked alongside Kenton and supported all his endeavors. She also held jobs at the Farmington Corn Shop, Harold J. Spears Co, Ma Bean Restaurant, Bass Shoe Shop, and Merrill Bank. Kenton depended on her assistance, so she often returned to the farm to help with the milking, bottling of milk, driving truck, as well as doing all the book work. She exemplified the devoted wife who cared for her husband through his numerous health issues including diabetes, open heart surgery, and dialysis. While doing all this, she worked on the farm, raised her children, when necessary she delivered milk door-to-door, made ice cream and was a faithful follower and worshiper of Christ. This was the woman that said “she would never marry a farmer.”
She was an active member of Fayette Baptist Church and remained the treasure of the Maine chapter of the National Farmers’ Organization.
She was an exceptional cook, knitter, seamstress, and gifted crafter. She understood the value of “handmade” and many people have received one-of-a-kind gifts made for them or their child.
She is survived by her four children, Jan and John Bell of Farmington, April and David Minney of Somers, CT, Marc and Pam Bailey and Konrad and Michele Bailey all of Farmington. She is survived by 13 grandchildren, Derik Rogers, Marlene Hutchins, John N. Bell, Elise Frank, Hope Bell, Faith Fletcher, Ashley Hannan, Erica Bailey, Joshua Bell, Thomas Bailey, Russell Bailey, Christopher Bailey, Lauren Webber, and their respective spouses. Additionally, she had 32 great-grandchildren. She is survived by in-laws, Helen Harris of Burlington, Clare Liwski and Lauris and Charlene Bailey all of Farmington plus many beloved nieces and nephews and her one and only cousin Jacqueline Groiss of Virginia.
She is predeceased by her parents, her husband in 1996, and her siblings, Alden Harris, Jerrold Harris, and Jean Thurlow.
Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, Oct. 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, 488 Farmington Falls Road, Farmington, ME 04938. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Oct. 12, at 3 p.m. at Henderson Memorial Baptist Church, 117 Academy Street, Farmington, ME 04938.
Condolences to the Bailey family.
Shirley was a treasure. Such a beautiful lady, inside and out. God bless her family with memories and comfort knowing she lived an amazing life. Glory to God.
So sorry for the loss of such a nice lady. Condolences to her family.
Jan, I am so sorry to read of your mom’s passing. I know this is such a difficult time for the Bailey and Bell families and I pray that your faith and the grace of God will sustain you through these challenging times. Your family connections are so strong and the love you share is a testament to your mom and dad.
So sorry to hear about this. Shirley was a dear friend and I have many fond memories of our times together. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Shirley was a very caring person and will be missed by all.
Shirley always had a smile which I will miss until we meet again. Condolences to her children and grandchildren. She was welcomed into heaven with the words “Well done my good and faithful servant”
Tammy & Reggie Rose
Shirley was an amazing woman…..totally devoted to her family and friends. I will miss her and love her forever.
I am so sorry to hear of Shirley’s sudden death. My heart felt prayers and sympathy to all of her family. She was a wonderful caring person. Anytime that I ran into Shirley, she was always a joy to talk with and we usually had a long conversation. May your faith help you all get through this difficult time. We all know that she is in a better place. RIP Shirley.
Jan, So very sorry for your loss.
My sincere and deepest condolences to the Baily family…
Shirley was a beautiful person inside and out. We are happy that you are finally united with Kenton and enjoying all the splendor that awaits all of Christ’s children. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends that you’ve left behind for now. May they now that others care and share in their sorrow.
Jan, Conrad & all family. My sincere condolences on the loss of your beautiful Mom. Shirley will be greatly missed but know that she is reunited with Kenton in a beautiful & peaceful place. RIP, Shirley.
My condolences Prayers and hugs to her family.
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the family during your time of grieving….
Charlie & Kathy Brush