Mrs. Irene Rice Bailey of Winder, GA, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved her dearly.
A life is more than dates on a stone; here is a small portion of her story.
Mrs. held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew her best.
The community of faith holds its own well — and Mrs. was held.
Mrs. Irene Rice Bailey, age 90, of Winder, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, at Gateway Gardens Assisted Living.She was born on February 12, 1936, Mrs. Bailey’s life was one of service to others, a deep commitment to her family, and a steadfast dedication to her faith.Mrs. Bailey pursued higher education with great determination, earning her Masters Degree. She worked alongside her husband as an administrative assistant at Cumberland Volkswagen, contributing significantly to the family business with grace and a diligent work ethic. A devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church of Statham, Mrs. Bailey was known for her enduring faith. Among her proudest accomplishments was reading the Bible cover to cover an astonishing twenty-six times, a reflection of her deep spiritual commitment and the foundation upon which she built her life.Mrs. Bailey was a loving soul who delighted in cooking and preparing meals for those in need. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and generosity, where nourishing others was a true joy. Additionally, she enjoyed traveling the world and exploring new places.She was known for her kind-hearted and giving nature, Mrs. Bailey lived with the heart of a servant, always ready to extend a helping hand and offer support wherever it was needed. Her legacy is one of compassion, faithfulness, and profound service—a life rich in meaning and marked by a constant desire to uplift others.Irene was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar Milton Rice and Nettie Mae Hawkins Rice; and her siblings, Paul Rice, David Rice, and Herbert Rice.She is survived by her devoted husband of 68 years, Bob Bailey of Winder; son, Gregg Bailey of Winder; sisters, Margaret Clay of Buford and Nell Cloud of Marietta; 3 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 8, 2026 in the Chapel of Maddox Memorial Home with Rev. Matt Dibler and Rev. Lindell Hunsley officiating. Burial will follow the service at Calvary Baptist Church Cemetery, Statham. The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 7, 2026 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Maddox Memorial Home. Flowers are accepted for the funeral service of Mrs. Bailey. Maddox Memorial Home, Winder, is entrusted with the arrangements.
