Mrs. Edith Virginia (Maxwell) Bailey

Mrs. Edith Virginia Bailey, a cherished matriarch and dedicated community servant, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025. Born in Oxford, PA, she was the beloved daughter of the late Letcher R. and Symanthia R. (Jones) Maxwell and wife of the late Mitchell F. Bailey Sr.

She is survived by sons Mitchell F. Jr., (wife Cheryl) of Hinesville,GA; David A. and Donald L. Bailey (twins) of Reading, PA, and daughter Michele' Bailey of Reading, PA. Edith is predeceased by her daughter Diana C. Ray. Edith is also survived by her nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.

Edith was one of many children and is survived by sisters Joan (Maxwell) Fairley and Theresa (Maxwell) Clements both of Oxford, PA. She is predeceased by sisters Hazel (Maxwell) Mayfield and Doris (Maxwell) English, and brothers J C Maxwell, Lawrence Maxwell and Lloyd Maxwell. She is also survived by a host of relatives and friends.

Edith’s family was her pride, and she cherished every moment spent with them, from cookouts to holiday dinners. She enjoyed reading to her grandchildren and embroidering intricate Christmas stockings for them.

Edith devoted the majority of her adult life to the Reading community, where she became a fixture of support for its youth. For a number of years, she worked as an outreach worker for the Economic Opportunity Council of Reading. Additionally, she was employed as an office employee, as well as, leader, committee person, and board member of the Reading Berks County Council of Camp Fire Girls. Her contributions earned her various accolades, including the prestigious first “Heart Award” for outstanding service as a staff member.

While actively serving her community, she pursued additional educational training through courses at Penn State Extension, Albright College, and Reading Area Community College. Edith served as Vice Moderator of the Women's Association and retired as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Spruce Manor.

While residing at Providence House during her retirement, she served as President of the Council, lobbying for improved accessibility and spearheading fundraising efforts for community events and entertainment.

Her faith was central to her life. Edith served as a church mother of St. James Chapel COGIC in Reading, where she attended regularly and tirelessly served her congregation. She was previously a member of Second Presbyterian Church during her time in Oxford.

Mrs. Edith Bailey’s warmth, compassion, and dedication to family and community will be dearly missed. Her legacy continues to inspire all who knew her and will be kept alive through the shared stories and cherished memories of her life well-lived.

A viewing will be held at Theo C. Auman Inc., 247 Penn St., Reading, PA 19601, on November 15, 2025, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Funeral service will promptly commence in the funeral home at 10:00 am. Graveside committal will immediately follow at Berks County Memorial Gardens, 201 Evansville Rd., Fleetwood, PA 19522.