Robert Chalmers Bailey

Mr. Bailey was born in Clayton, Missouri on April 27, 1932 to Marion and Jean (Gordon) Bailey. He had four brothers: Marion (Jack), Richard, Donald, and Jim. Bob graduated from Christian Brothers College High School in 1950. Immediately upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander, was a veteran of the Korean War, served for 28 years, and retired with distinction. While stationed in Washington D.C. in the early years of his service, Bob met the love of his life, Eva Louise Coy. They wed on August 3, 1957 and had a faithful and loving relationship until Eva passed away in 2003. From the depths of their hearts they chose to grow their family by lovingly adopting three children, Robert, Jr. in 1960, William in 1964, and Barbara Ann in 1969. They were the “Family that Grew;” Robert, Sr. was the taproot. Over the years, Bob patiently and affectionately supported and guided his children into adulthood. Robert had the pleasure of having six grandchildren, Elisabeth, Anthony, Teresa, Rachel, James, and Cassie, who all brought him much happiness and great joy. Over the years, Bob met many wonderful people and gained a large number of friends; closest to him were Art and Marie Arthofer and Skip and Rose Nielson. Bob loved to golf and spent many hours handicapping his handicap at the Oceana Naval Air Station Golf Course with his fellow “Swindlers.” While stationed in Virginia Beach before retiring from active duty, Robert joined the Knights of Columbus affiliating with the Father Habets Council where he served his Church and made many close friends. He is preceded in death by: his parents, Jean Gordon Bailey and Marion Bailey; brothers Marion (Jack), Donald, and Jim; his loving spouse Eva; and, his best friends Art Arthofer and Skip Nielson. Bob is survived by his children, Robert, Jr. (Mary), William, and Barbara Ann (Bill), brother Richard, six grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces. Bob was considered by his family and friends to be a man of class, honor, integrity, and dignity. He was loved and respected by all who knew him. He will always be our beloved “Pops” and will be greatly missed.

A christian wake service will be held at the Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia on Sunday, October 20, at 3p.m. The family will receive friends until 5p.m.

A Funeral Service will be held at Smith and Williams Funeral Home, Kempsville Chapel on Monday, October 21, 2013 at 11am. A Committal Service will be held at the Rosewood Memorial Park, 631 North Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia on Monday, October 21, 2013 immediately following the service.

Friends may offer condolences at www.smithandwilliamskempsville.com.