Russell George Bailey

Passed away on December 27, 2024 with his family at his side, in his home in Beaumont, CA , losing his battle with cancer. Russ was born in St. Charles, Il on June 23,1941 to George and Ruth Bailey. The family moved to Temple City, CA where he graduated from Arroyo High School in 1959; he received his AA Degree from Crafton Hills College.

In 1964, Russ married the love of his life, Jeannette, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Temple City. They shared a beautiful 60 years and five months of marriage. They enjoyed new adventures, times with family and friends and quiet evenings together. His advice for such a successful marriage was simply say, “Yes, Dear!” He is survived by his son, Michael and wife Britta Bailey; and son, Craig and wife Christina Bailey; and sister, Avis Berney of Wisconsin, and grandchildren Dustin and Janelle of Kansas.

He was an active participant in activities with his boys – be it AYSO Soccer, Baseball for Boys or Boy Scouts of America where both sons gained Eagle Scouts. During High School years, he supported them through Redlands High School Choir activities.

He was employed by Devoe Marine Company of Riverside, which prompted a move to Redlands, CA. in 1979. He was an outside salesman for J.A. Sexauer and Wurth USA. His success was marked by his honesty, integrity, and genuine love of people. He never met a stranger and always had a joke or kind word to pass along.

Golf must have been part of his DNA as he was a caddie at age 11 at the St Charles Country Club, IL. In his retirement he joined the Solera Golf Club and golfed many courses in the Inland Empire. He bonded with his golf buddies to form an everlasting friendship. He was an avid reader and enjoyed westerns, his favorite being Louis Lamour. He was always ready to attend air and car shows. In his retirement he tried his hand at water colors and enjoyed painting various birds.

His Lutheran background was an important part of life where he attended faithfully over the years. He served in as an Elder, painted parsonages and nurseries, and served on several call committees and internal organizations. He was always willing to say “yes” where he was needed and now, he has answered the call to be Home with his Lord.

A service is scheduled for January 25 at 11 am at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1505 S Ford Street, Redlands, CA. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to a charity of your choice in Russ’ name to honor his legacy.