Mary E. Bailey

Born in Iowa on August 26, 1954 to Robert C. and Marjorie D. Randall, Mary grew up in Iowa City alongside her brother, William. She enjoyed playing the piano and violin and playing tennis in high school. She also loved traveling to national parks and snow skiing in Colorado. She attended Iowa City High School and continued her education at the College of Wooster and the University of Iowa.

Mary worked in recreation therapy, dedicating her career to working in skilled nursing facilities, where she brought care and engagement to those she served.

On April 18, 2003, Mary married George Bailey in Little Rock, Arkansas. Together, they built a life filled with adventure and a deep appreciation for nature. They spent more than ten years living in Montana on 40 acres overlooking the Yellowstone River, surrounded by their many dogs and cats. Mary especially cherished time at their A-frame cabin near Nye, Montana, where she and George enjoyed the peaceful setting beside a roaring creek.

Mary had a deep love for animals and took a special interest in helping homeless pets. She also valued time with family, especially gatherings like Thanksgiving. She found joy in simple and meaningful moments, particularly being outdoors with her husband and their animals.

She enjoyed hiking, riding in the mountains on an ATV, walking her dogs, reading, camping, and driving her 1982 gold Corvette. One of her favorite pastimes was walking her dogs along the Yellowstone River.

Mary was an active member of her community. She volunteered with an animal shelter, attended the Loveland Symphony, volunteered at the Rialto Theatre, and was a member of the PEO women’s organization.

Mary is survived by her brother, William J. Randall, and his wife, Patricia L. Randall. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Bailey, and by her first husband David Elliott.

A Celebration of Mary's Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11am at Resthaven Funeral Home & Memory Gardens in Fort Collins, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local animal shelter.