William Eugene "Gene" Bailey

William Eugene "Gene" Bailey, age 95 of Winder, GA, passed away on January 7, 2026. Gene was born in Keener, AL, to the late Edward Lee and Bertie Bailey. He graduated from Etowah County High School in Gadsden, AL, and Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL. Gene served his country in the U.S. Navy as an aircraft mechanic where his squadron was attached to the USS Bennington and the USS Tarawa. He retired at 58 years old from a career as a Regional Manager with Whirlpool. He enjoyed farming, gardening, and woodworking and he built his own home. Gene was a fan of Alabama football. Gene was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, Gene is preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Ernestine Bailey; son, Warren "Buck" Bailey; daughter, Missy Morgan; grandson, Ryan Morgan; and siblings: J.R. Bailey, Boyd Bailey, Harold Bailey, and Carolyn Smith. He is survived by his son, Walt (Sarah) Bailey of Statham; daughters: Fonda (Ernie) Sullivan of Winder, and Celina (Steve) Davis of Hoschton; eight grandchildren: Heather Sullivan, Brandi Colon, Rebecca Davis, Heidi Morgan, Will Morgan, Nick Davis, Ben Bailey, and Shelby Bailey; and four great-grandchildren: Hannah Sullivan, Haley Sullivan, Emma Colon, and Maddie Colon.

A visitation for family and friends will be held at Smith Funeral Home on Friday, January 9, 2026 from 12:00 noon until 1:00 pm. There will be a graveside service following the visitation at Barrow Memorial Gardens. Rev. John Burchfield will officiate.