Wilma Faye Bailey

Wilma Faye Bailey, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026, in Abingdon, Virginia, at the age of 82. Wilma was born on January 23, 1944, in Oakwood, Virginia, to Vestel Moore and Alice Curtis Moore. Her life was marked by devotion to her family, enduring kindness, and a warmth that touched all who knew her.

Wilma attended Patterson grade school and continued her education at Grundy High School. From her earliest years, she cultivated the strength and loving spirit that so many would come to rely on. As a homemaker, Wilma truly made her house a home, filling it with love, laughter, and the unforgettable aroma of her legendary biscuits and gravy. She was renowned among family and friends for her wonderful cooking.

Family was the heart of Wilma’s world. She was a devoted wife to her husband of 66 years, Jerry Bailey. Together they built a life rooted in love and shared joys. Wilma cherished her children—son Danny Bailey (Rhonda), and daughters Jennifer Baker (Randy Wood) and Pam Dunn. Her grandchildren—Justin Edward, Sarah, Daniel, Justin, Mikeala, Allen, Lianna, and Courtney—brought her immeasurable happiness, and she delighted in being a guiding light to them. Wilma’s love extended to her twelve great-grandchildren, whose presence filled her days with joy.

Wilma is also survived by her brothers, Donald Moore and Ronald Moore (Edith), her sister Betty Lane, and her many nieces and nephews, who were an important part of her life. She was predeceased by her parents, Vestal Moore and Alice Curtis Moore, her brothers Bob Moore, Bill Moore and James Moore, and her sisters Edith Crabtree and Beulah French.

A faithful member of Brumley Gap Methodist Church, Wilma’s faith was evident in her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness. She had a deep appreciation for simple pleasures: she enjoyed quiet afternoons tending her beautiful garden, canning the fruits of her labor, and quilting. Watching westerns with her husband and following the stories of “Days of Our Lives” were favorite pastimes. Family gatherings were often highlighted by her delicious home-cooked meals and the warmth of her hospitality.

Her family remembers her as a loving and kind soul whose legacy is one of compassion, selfless love, and dedication to those she held dear. Wilma’s nurturing spirit, strength, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and all who were privileged to know her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Caris Hospice for their exceptional care and support, with special thanks to Gypsy, Steve, and Tom.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 24, 2026, 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 427 E. Main Street, Abingdon, VA. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, with Dr. David Stancil officiating. The burial will follow at Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA. Pallbearers will be family and friends.