Obituary of Barbara Sue Bailey

Barbara Sue Bailey (née Gillespie), 83, passed away on March 4, 2024, in Bothell, WA. She was born on April 22, 1940 in Cincinnati, OH. Barbara graduated from Boca Ciega High School in Madeira Beach, FL, and furthered her education at the University of Florida ('62) and the University of Washington ('66).

Barbara began her career as a public health nurse in Seattle, WA. After moving to California, she transitioned into education and was a dedicated elementary school Special Education teacher in South San Francisco, CA, and later in Brier, WA. She had a passion for helping and educating children, leaving a lasting impact on many lives.

In her free time, Barbara enjoyed gardening, birdwatching, crafting, and taking long walks. She was known for her unique style, sense of humor, and love for bright colors and whimsical earrings. Barbara had a lifelong love for baking, which she learned while helping her father in the family bakery as a child in Cincinnati. She made delicious homemade jam.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Dr. Caroline Bailey, her son Jon Bailey, her daughter-in-law Melinda Bailey, her granddaughter Zelda Bailey, and her former husband, Charles M. Bailey, Jr. She was preceded in death by her sister, Janet Ehrman. She will be missed by her family and the many cherished friends she made along the way. 

The Curnow Funeral Home in Sumner, WA, is assisting the family with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the International Dyslexia Association or the League of Women Voters in memory of Barbara Sue Bailey. Barbara was a member of both organizations. The family welcomes donations to the Alzheimers Association to fund continuing research https://alzfdn.org/donate/ 

The family requests that you send photos, stories, and memories of Barbara for a digital memory book via e-mail to barbbaileymemorial@gmail.com