Dateline:  Williamston, NC

Kenneth Wayne Bailey, 82, of Williamston, NC departed this earthly life bound for Heaven on Sunday, October 11, 2026. Born to GT and Mollie Mae Bailey, he spent most of his youth in the Bear Grass Community where he met the love of his life Marie Taylor whom he married on December 2, 1966. Kenneth and Marie had two daughters, Sherri and Pamela. Kenneth took pride in being a “jack of all trades and master of none” – his words, not ours. He retired from Weyerhaeuser with 33 years of service. In his spare time, you could find Kenneth on the water fishing for the next big one or in his shop tinkering. Kenneth’s favorite times were spent with family and friends, whether it be hosting a fish fry, hanging with the morning crew at Bojangles, enjoying the cultural experience of one of his granddaughter’s ballet programs (most of which he actually stayed awake), or watching his grandson play baseball. He also got the greatest joy taking his grandson (his buddy) fishing or teaching him carpentry skills which he knew would be passed on to his newest little buddy, his great grandson. Time spent with his granddaughter (his princess) was priceless to him, whether it be making sure she got her Mickey Mouse shaped pancakes or her just sitting in his lap trying to convince her Papa to take her to Shamrock for breakfast.

He will be greatly missed by his wife Marie, daughters Sherri Bailey, Pamela (Michael) Cowin, grandson Zach (Lexi) Cowin, granddaughter Peyton Cowin, great-grandson Hudson Cowin (child of Zach & Lexi). He is also survived by his two sisters JoAnn Lee Honeycutt (Robert) and Elaine Leggett (Mitch) and his brother-in-law (and brother by heart) Phil Taylor. Also left to cherish his memory are multiple nieces, nephews, and their families. Last but not least, he will be missed by his four-legged best friend Bandit (cat) whom he shared his recliner. He was proceeded in death by his parents and younger brother George Bailey and favorite uncle Bobby Ray Bailey.

Family would like to express gratitude for the many calls, prayers, and support extended during Kenneth’s illness. Flowers are appreciated or donations to Community Christian Church, are welcomed – or honor his memory by taking a kid fishing.

Special acknowledgement to Liberty Home Health and Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Kenneth and his family.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Community Christian Church with Dr. George Powell officiating and music provided by Tracey Lee.  Burial will follow at Martin Memorial Gardens with the following serving as pallbearers: Joby Griffin, Charles Mills, Nick Nicholson, Buck Davis and Paul Roberson. The family will be recieving friends one hour prior to the service at the church and other times at the home.

Online condolences may be directed to www.walkerfh.net 

Walker Funeral Home, of Williamston is honored to serve the Bailey family.