Gilbert “Bill” Bailey went to be with Jesus at 100 years of age on Sunday, September 13, 2026. He passed peacefully in his sleep.
Bill was a native of Bee Log, North Carolina, and after serving his country in the United States Navy, he lived in various places throughout the United States. Although welding was his occupation, farming was deep-seated in his heart and brought him great enjoyment.
His love for Jesus was the core of his life, and his love for his family enriched the lives of every member of it. Bill was a man of strong faith whose prayers were a meaningful part of his life and the lives of those he loved. His family will forever be grateful for the example he set, the love he shared, and the prayers he offered on their behalf. His legacy of faith and devotion will continue through the generations he leaves behind.
Bill leaves behind his daughters, Barbara Cook Smith (Fred) and BJ Brown (James Brown); grandchildren, Tabitha Cook Lowe (Ed), Molly Brown Myers (Luke), Macy Brown, and James Matthew Brown (Holly); and great-grandchildren, Avery Vice, Maddy Vice, Will Myers, Eve Myers, Adelaide Myers, and Daisy Brown.
Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Wilma Bailey; his daughter, Brenda Jennings; and his grandsons, James B. Cook, III and James B. Cook, IV.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Following the service, Bill will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife in Gardens of Memory Cemetery.
