Wanda Bailey

Wanda Louise Stewart Bailey, the deeply cherished matriarch of her family, went home to be with the Lord on August 9, 2026, at the age of 87. Born to Ben and Veda Stewart on February 24, 1939, Wanda grew up in a vibrant, lively household as one of nine children. She was the last of her siblings to be called home, marking the beautiful completion of a cherished generation.

On April 7, 1957, Wanda married her true love, Raymond Henry Bailey. Together, they built a life rooted in love and shared purpose of leading people to Christ for 65 beautiful years. Her first and most treasured job was pouring her heart into her family, successfully raising her six children into independence. As the family blossomed, she joyfully stepped into her role as “Munner” or “Grandmother,” becoming the soft landing and guiding light for 19 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Wanda’s absolute passions were her deeply personal relationship with God, her unwavering devotion to her husband, her profound love for her children, and the warmth of her lifelong friendships. She possessed a joyful spirit and loved the simple pleasures of life—whether she was playing or watching basketball, enjoying a shopping trip with her granddaughters, connecting with her grandsons, or anything pink. She found immense joy and spiritual strength in listening to some "good preaching."

Wanda brought her dedicated work ethic and warm hospitality to the workforce, serving as the Head Housekeeper at the Holiday Inn. She later took a position as the Volunteer Coordinator at the Dallas Life Foundation, where she shined as she scheduled, welcomed, and trained volunteers to provide a compassionate "hand-up" to those in need. Yet, the role where her soul truly radiated was as a pastor’s wife. Standing steadfastly beside Ray, she supported him and the congregations they served with grace and humility. Through this shared ministry, she grew profoundly in her own faith, stepping into a place of spiritual leadership and lasting impact that touched countless lives.

Wanda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond Henry Bailey; her son, Michael Raymond Bailey; her daughter, Jennie Diane Brock; her son-in-law Ron Brock; her parents, Ben and Veda Stewart; and her eight siblings, AD, GW, Bill, John, Martha, Charlotte, Rudy, and Sharon. What a glorious and joyful reunion they are sharing now in the presence of their Savior.

Her legacy of love, faith, and enduring grace survives in the hearts of her family: Teresa Bailey of Arlington; Greg and Shelley Bailey of Plano; Tony and Teresa Bailey of Nevada; Rayma and Robert Jordan of Josephine; and Joe and Sheila of Walnut Shade, Missouri, alongside her vast circle of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and dear friends.