Richard "Dick" Bailey

Richard “Dick” Wallace Bailey, 80, of Fresno, Ca passed peacefully at 12:20 a.m.  Saturday, July 30, 2016 in his Fresno home with his children and dedicated family friend, Darren Lee at his side.

Born Jan. 14, 1936 in Kokomo, Indiana, he was the son of Walter Clarmont Bailey and Marietta (Wallace) Bailey (Thomson).

Mr. Bailey was a retired quality engineer and worked for several prominent corporations in Southern California since the 1960’s.

At an early age, Richard joined the Schmaltz/Morphet family after his father’s untimely death. He lived and worked alongside the family and his mentor, Elmer “Sonny” Schmaltz on the Morphet Farm in Royal Center, Ind. until young adulthood. Richard gratefully attributed his life success from the lessons he learned while living on that farm. He had fond memories of running cross-country with his brothers while attending Royal Center High School. He graduated in 1954 with his childhood sweetheart, Betty Jo Anderson. Shortly thereafter, he joined the Marines and was sent to Camp Pendleton for basic training located in San Diego, Ca.

Richard married Betty Jo in Royal Center, 1955. They remained in California and raised their children in Simi Valley. Richard and Betty shared over 52 years of adventure and companionship until Betty’s passing just short of their 53rd anniversary.

Richard loved playing basketball, both team and pick-up games, well into his 60’s and was a loyal Laker fan.

Richard was proud of the trees he planted for the generations to enjoy, security he provided for his family, the work ethic he taught to his children, and the love of travel that his children still cherish to this day. He had a smile for all children and the respect of all that knew him.

Surviving Richard and Betty are one son, Jeffrey A. Bailey, Mesa Az.; one daughter Rebecca S. Bailey, Fresno, Ca.

Surviving siblings, Danny Bailey, Elizabethtown, Ky.; Jim Thomson, Alpine, Ca,; stepbrother, William Thomson, Twelve Mile, In.; stepsister, Cathy (Leppert) Thomson, Salt Lake City, Ut.

Preceding Richard in death: siblings, Karlene (Crecelius), Charlie, and Bob Bailey.

Graveside Services for Richard and Betty Bailey will be held on their wedding anniversary, Friday, November 4, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. at the Royal Center Cemetery with Pastor Scott Ellison officiating.

Local arrangements have been entrusted to Harrison-Metzger-Rans Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Royal Center.