The family of Herbert Bailey of Riverton, WY announces his passing, and invites all who knew him to remember him here.
Here is what mattered, in the years between the dates.
The years gathered, as years do, into a life.
Private services will be held for Herbert Henry "Bear" Bailey, 74, who passed away Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Riverton, Wyoming.
Herbert was born July 27, 1951, in Mexico, Missouri, the son of James M. and Cynthia M. (Willis) Bailey.
On April 4, 1970, Herbert married Kathy L. McCall in Statenville, Georgia.
Throughout his life, Herbert lived in Missouri, Florida, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Wyoming. He held a wide variety of occupations, including working as a heavy machinery operator in uranium mines, horse trainer, ranch hand, cattle artificial inseminator, songwriter, and bodyguard.
Herbert was a man of many talents and interests. He enjoyed songwriting, inventing, gator hunting, working as a hunting guide, fishing, and deep-sea fishing. He was a black belt in karate and a single-engine pilot. He also had a passion for mechanics, survival skills, gunsmithing, knife collecting, trapping, sharpshooting, photography, and gardening. In his leisure time, he especially enjoyed throwing darts and playing horseshoes. He was known in Florida as "the Wild Man of Fort Drum."
Survivors include his loving wife. Kathy L. Bailey of Riverton; daughters, Lorean Idalia Bailey, Loretta Lorraine Chrissy Crystal Barry-Hens and Angel Mae Bailey (Anidawehi); brothers, Vernon Bailey and Andy Bailey; sisters, Carol Scentmartoni and Donna Thompson; grandchildren, Katelyn Jacey Rose Williams, Aliyah Daisy Nicole Williams, Bryson Octavius Rebel Streeter, Gabriel Jasper Xavius Streeter, Jacob Henry "Little Bear" Bailey, Kirra Faith Charlene Montgomery, Mason Wayne Harris, Benjamin Everett Lee, Marcus Blaine Crews and Elizabeth "Lizzy" Raine Crews; great grandchildren, Iyla Kaye Monroe Jackson, Starlie Angel Raye Jackson, Harper Michelle Miles and T.H. Miles.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James M. Bailey and Cynthia Mae Willis Bailey; siblings, Melvadine "Melvie" Jones, Sonny Bailey and David Bailey; his youngest daughter, Kathy Charlene "K.C." Bailey.
Online condolences may be made at www.TheDavisFuneralHome.com
Arrangements are under the direction of Davis Funeral Home of Riverton, Wyoming.
