Lewis Bailey Obituary

Lewis L. Bailey, Jr., son of Lewis L. Bailey Sr. and Bertha P. (Miller) Bailey, was born June 22, 1931, in Palisade, Nebraska and departed this life July 6, 2025, in Lebanon, Missouri, at the age of ninety-four years.
Lewis and his family moved around a lot through out his childhood following his father's welding job. It took them to several states, including Nebraska, Tennessee and eventually landed them in Missouri, where Lewis graduated from Willard High School with the Class of 1949.
Following his graduation, Lewis was united in marriage with the love of his life Mary Lou Hawkins, on August 12, 1950. Together they shared fifty-six years of love, laughter and cherished memories side by side, while raising their three children. Until Mary's passing on May 7, 2007.
Lewis was no stranger to hard work. He worked many years as a auto and diesel mechanic. He ran B & B Campground near his Bennett Springs home for over twenty years. He also worked at the local Independent Stave Mill for twenty plus years, until his retirement.
He was an avid hunter and enjoyed hunting for quail, deer and turkey. He was known for being an exquisite fisherman and had spent many hours on the Niangua River honing his skill. He enjoyed woodwork and helping Mary with crafts, bringing all her visions to life. He was lovingly referred to as "Mr. Fix It," by family and friends.
Lewis had many joys in his long life however, time spent with his family and memories made hunting, fishing, and camping with family is what he cherished most.
Lewis is survived by his children, Richard L. Bailey and his wife Debbie, Sally Lewis and her husband Ed, and Barbara Ruble, all of Lebanon, Missouri; one brother, Robert (Bob) E. Bailey and his wife Elsie, of Lebanon, Missouri; thirteen grandchildren, Edmond (Eddie) Lewis Jr., Benjamin (Dan) Lewis, Joseph (Sam) Lewis and his wife Stacey, Karla Sutton and her husband Steve, Matthew Ruble and his wife Mandy, Elizabeth (Jane) Shelton, Kenneth Ruble and his wife Michelle, Richard (Rich) T. Bailey, Keith Bailey, Rachael Bailey, Amanda Bailey, D.J. Phalen and his wife Angela and Angie McElroy and her husband James; thirty great-grandchildren; eleven great-great-grandchildren, plus one on the way; other relatives and many dear friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary Lou; one son-in-law, Ken Ruble; and two sisters, Zellah Dameron and Sandra Richardson.
Lewis was loved by all who knew him. Though we will miss him here, he is with his Mary now.
Memorials in memory of Lewis have been suggested to The American Cancer Society. Donations can be left at or mailed to Shadel's Colonial Chapel, P.O. Box 948, Lebanon, MO 65536.
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