MARY L. BAILEY
Mary L. Bailey, 96, of Norwich, passed away on Thursday January 26, 2017 at Chenango Memorial Hospital.
Born in Buffalo, New York to Noah and Mary Louise Johnson on June 27, 1920, Mary was married to Chester Bailey in 1941. Together with her husband, she raised a family and filled many long years fishing, hunting, camping and enjoying the Norwich Boat Club.
She loved to travel and would combine that with her enjoyment of card games and bingo and yearly trips to Las Vegas with her group of close girlfriends. She taught ceramics locally and wasn’t afraid to try new things when it came to her health and wellbeing. She used her love of music to keep her motivated. During her country and western days, she would follow touring friends to their shows, in her ever-present cowboy boots and hat, enjoying the music and cheering them on.
Mary had a volunteer’s spirt and worked at the VFW on bingo night cooking and baking. She was always willing to help out or lend a hand when she was asked or saw a need in her community; even opening up her home as a foster mother.
She is survived by her Daughter Gloria (Bill) Artist; her Son, Robert Bailey; Brother Fred Johnson; Grandchildren, Ashley Artist, DeeDee Spalding, Sena Hodge, Cathy Cena, & Matthew Natoli. Many Great-Grandchildren and Great-Great-Grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews, also survive.
Mary’s husband Chester passed away in 1989, and she is also predeceased by her son Chester Bailey Jr.; sister, Leila Preston; and brothers, Bill and Carl Johnson.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday February 1st, at the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home, 116 N. Broad Street, Norwich, from 1-3 pm. A funeral service will be held immediately following at 3 pm. There is no interment scheduled at this time.
Arrangements made by R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.