Merritt Floyd Bailey, Sr., who had just reached his 83rd birthday, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 3, 2024, in Abingdon, Virginia.
Born on September 2, 1941 in Lithonia, Georgia, he lived a life marked by devotion, laughter, and service. He and his beloved wife, Lynda, were happily married for 65 years. They got married at a young age, raised a family of three children, and lived and loved their life in various locations in Georgia and Florida. Along with his wife, he had a soul that was content anywhere he set his mind on living. Merritt spent his early years in Georgia, where he attended Chamblee High School and later took classes at Georgia State. He dedicated about 40 years to his career as a claims adjuster starting in 1966. He also found joy in working alongside Lynda, with whom he owned and operated several interior design businesses over many years. A devout member most recently at the East Bristol Church of Christ in Bristol, Virginia, Merritt was passionate about his faith. While residing in Florida, he was known for his love of praising and singing to the Lord. This included leading the congregation in song worship and participating in a gospel singing group called "The McGregor Singers". Serving as a Deacon, he was dedicated to leading others to Christ. His commitment to his faith was evident in all aspects of his life, including Bible devotionals for his family and in later years, his daily prayers and Bible reading with his wife. He cherished time spent with his children, whom he affectionately called "yardbirds" and kept them laughing with his quick wit and humor. He loved being “Papa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, spending time with them at the river, where he lived near family in his final years. Merritt enjoyed reading, bike riding, taking care of his wife, and in his earlier years, occasional experimental cooking. He especially loved throwing his homemade sandwiches to you at the table! One of his favorite pastimes was visiting Florida beaches, and he was able to enjoy this for many years. Other hobbies included working on old cars and trucks with his son, and spending time with his daughters.
His greatest joy in life was being of service to others. He was our adored Daddy, protector, provider, spiritual leader, dedicated husband, good friend, and brother in Christ.
He is survived by his Children: Kathy Zane Bailey Holland (Don), Merritt Floyd Bailey, Jr. (Elizabeth), Regina Darlene Bailey Jackson (Hal); Grandchildren: Nathanael Lee Holland (Umoyo), Josiah Lee Holland (Larissa), Merritt Floyd Bailey III (Katherine), Jessie Elizabeth Bailey Kachelman (Adam), Logan Neal Bailey (Janica), Spencer Reid Bailey (Hannah), Savanna Grace Jackson Westjohn (Austin), William Timothy Jackson, and James Hunter Jackson; Great-grandchildren: Anna Taonga Holland, Phoebe Temwani Holland, Victor Lee Holland, Miles Xavier Holland, Maverick Emerson Bailey, Moxie Elizabeth Bailey, Beau William Bailey, Beatrice Suzette Bailey, Penelope Ruth Bailey, Emily Bailey Kachelman, Elizabeth Saylor Kachelman, Miles Padan Kachelman, and Landon Jayce Bailey. He is also survived by his sister, Beverly Bailey Robinson, as well as many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are his father, Euel Floyd Bailey (1963): his mother, Grace Frances Humphries Bailey Smith (1990); his step-father, Howard Franklin Smith (2006): and his beloved wife, Lynda Zane Harper Bailey (2023).
A private family service will be held to celebrate the lives of Merritt and Lynda together, per their wishes, with their burial to take place at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Conyers, Georgia.
The family extends special thanks to the nurses and staff at Abingdon Health and Rehab for their exceptional care in the final days of Merritt and Lynda.
Also, thanks to Frost Funeral Home in Abingdon, Virginia for their compassionate assistance in arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Luso-Africa Mission Partners at http://lamp-international.org or Weeki Wachee Christian Camp at https://wwcc.camp/.
Merritt will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His servant heart, love for his family, and unwavering faith will always be remembered and cherished. We anticipate the day when we will see him again, fully redeemed by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
Frost Funeral Home & Cremation Services, is honored to serve the family of Mr. Bailey.
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