Russell R. Bailey Sr.

"God has smiled on me, he has set me free. God has smiled on me, he's been good to me."

Most likely that's what Russell R. Bailey, Sr. was singing May 16, 2018 as he transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly one. Born March 25, 1937, in Isle of Wight County to the late Mamie Idell and Johnnie Bailey, Baby-Ray as they knew him, was the youngest and last remaining of 9 siblings: George, James "Arthur', Johnny, Gracie, Elsie, Henry & Aretha (twins)and Marion. Russell attended and graduated from Isle of Wight Training School in Smithfield, VA. Being a firm believer of continuing education he furthered his learning by completing several courses at Paul D. Camp Community College. After high school he started working at Gwaltney of Smithfield, becoming a truckdriver and retiring after 46 years as the Transportation Manager. Still vibrant and full of life after retirement he started his own business "R & P Enterprises", which he ran until his health began to fail. At an early age Russell gave his life to Christ and became a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Smithfield Virginia. In 1974 he continued his service to God by joining the Main Street Baptist Church family, where he served on various boards, committees and auxiliaries, including the Deacon Board, Men of Music and Adult Choir. "Bailey" as she affectionately called him, married his high school sweetheart Peggy Ballard, who he leaves after 61 years of love and dedicated devotion to cherish his memories along with their children: Lenore Jenkins (Samuel) of Hampton, VA; Russell R. Bailey Jr. (Shauna) of Belle Chasse, Louisiana; Gregory T. Bailey (Janeen) of Topeka, KS; Arlene Eley (Joseph) of Elberon, VA; and Darlene Byrd of Surry, VA; 14 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family and friends. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11:00am Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at Main Street Baptist Church Smithfield , Va. Viewing will be held on Monday, May 21, 2018 from 4-7pm with reflections from 6-7pm at the chapel. Interment will be in the Emmanuel Baptist Church cemetery Smithfield, Va. Professional services are entrusted to Shivers Funeral Chapel.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11:00am Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at Main Street Baptist Church Smithfield , Va. Viewing will be held on Monday, May 21, 2018 from 4-7pm with reflections from 6-7pm at the chapel. Interment will be in the Emmanuel Baptist Church cemetery Smithfield, Va. Professional services are entrusted to Shivers Funeral Chapel.