Rodney William Bailey

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Rodney William Bailey, 67, of Rusk, TX. He passed away Saturday, March 23, 2024 near Crockett, TX doing what he loved the most.

Rod was born February 10, 1957 to William Bailey and Darlene Floch Standard in Greenville, PA. He lived his childhood in Kinsman, Ohio and graduated from Badger High School in 1975.

Rod excelled at basketball and baseball in high school. He had a scout from the Cincinnati Reds very interested in his pitching but an arm injury led him to other journeys in life. Shortly after graduating high school, Rod joined the US Navy where he proudly served his country. After his honorable discharge he began his career as a brick layer and quickly became a master of that trade. He was a proud veteran and patriot as well as a Christian. Rod was a longtime, committed member of Alcoholics Anonymous. As an ambassador for substance abuse, he led many people through the 12 steps, not only by teaching them but remaining by their sides and forming forever bonds. He was a recovery champion to countless people.

He earned the name American Rider because of his love for the road. He was passionate about riding so most days you would find him cruising down the highways and backroads of America, usually listening to music with a look of satisfaction on his face and smiling while being one with God’s great creations. He always shared his journeys with us so it felt as though we were along for the ride with him. Another passion of Rod’s was children. They were drawn to him with his big, gentle teddy bear spirit and his huge, caring heart. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Rod is survived by his father William Bailey; mother Darlene Standard; brother Roger and spouse Hazel; sister Ralenda and spouse Randall; niece Bea Faithe; nephews John Bailey and Cade Parks. “Son” Jason Kellis and spouse Amanda and their family: Brittany, Aaron, KP, Kolsen, Claire, Andrew, Chandler, Kamryn and Tilton. Step-brother Randy Griffith and spouse Denise; step-sister Char Decker, step- sisters Samantha Toole, Tara Toole and step-brother Britt Toole. Uncle Don and aunt Marie Hall, uncle Larry and aunt Vonda Floch and a never-ending list of cousins, extended family and friends.

Rod was preceded in death by his beloved sister Regina Bailey Parks; brother Ronald Bailey; step- mother Mary Lee Bailey; aunt Betty Bartlett; grandparents: Oscar and Auta Dahl, Nicholas and Arlene Sekella, Robert and Dorothy Bailey, Dennis and Ruthie Floch and Daniel and Ruth Floch.

Rod’s family would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 20,2024. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with a service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of the following organizations.

bikerdown.org

motorelief.org

rideforkids.org