Ronald Lee Bailey

Ronald Lee Bailey, 72, of Virginia Beach, VA, passed away peacefully at his home on August 5, 2023, surrounded by his family, after a short battle with cancer. Ron was born in Bluefield, WV, to the late Leotis E. Bailey and Noma C. Johnson. As a teenager, his father’s naval career brought the family to Virginia Beach. He attended Kellam High School, where he was a member of the surfing club. After high school, he worked as a plumber before beginning a 30-year civil service career. During his federal service, he worked as a pipe fitter, nuclear inspector and finally retired as a Quality Assurance Specialist. One of his most memorable career experiences was his travels to Scotland, Portugal, and Spain. Ron enjoyed the simple things in life and dedicated his leisure time to the outdoors. During his youth, he enjoyed surfing and playing softball, and as he matured, his interests shifted to fishing and hunting. He was a long-time member of the Poor Boys Hunt Club and, most recently, the Pine Tree Hunt Club. When Ron was not at the hunt club or on his boat, you could find him tinkering in his garage or making home improvements. Ron was steadfast in his Christian faith and regularly reminded his family to count their blessings. He was generous with his time and willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. Ron was quick-witted. Always ready with a "dad joke," he could easily brighten your day. His greatest joy in life was time spent with his family. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of over 40 years, Barbara Bailey; son, Adrian Bailey (Akiko); daughter, Melissa Merritt (Thomas); five grandchildren, Maya, Roselin, Sasha, Kai, and Margot; sister, Shelia Cejka (Terry); brother, Larry Bailey (Nancy); and many other relatives and friends who meant so much to him; especially his hunting buddy and best friend, Dudley Melton. A memorial service will be held at 10 am on August 16 at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Norfolk, followed by a graveside burial. The family will only receive guests at the reception immediately following the graveside service. Instead of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.