William Bailey

William Bill Bailey, a loving and devoted husband to Shirley departed this life Feb. 20, 2026, at his home. Bill was born Dec. 6, 1940, in Hannibal, Missouri, to Edward and Anna Maie (Sommer) Bailey. They preceded him in death along with three brothers and two sisters.

Bill was a high school football star and a star tennis player. He was invited to play football at the University of Notre Dame. However, after moving to Poplar Bluff, he met Shirley and that meeting changed the course of his life. Football quickly took a back seat as he found the true love of his life.

Bill and Shirley were united in marriage October 1959; a union that would span more than six decades and served as a beautiful example of love and devotion.

Bill began a lifelong career with Missouri Pacific Railroad and Union Pacific Railroad where he faithfully worked for over 45 years. Through dedication and hard work, he provided steadfastly for his family and built a legacy of integrity and perseverance.

On June 4, 1960, Bill and Shirley welcomed their first child Jeanie Bailey (Mathias) who preceded him in death Feb. 26, 2025.

On Sept. 26, 1967, they welcomed their second child William S. Rock Bailey Jr., who survives.

Bill is also survived by three grandchildren, Adam (Ashley) Mathias, Jared (Janelle) Mathias and Zachary (Fawn) Mullenix, as well as 12 cherished great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life.

Bill loved the outdoors. He treasured fishing and hunting with his son, Rock. The two were inseparable when it came to spending time in nature sharing early mornings, quiet conversations and countless memories in the woods and on the water.

Bill was so proud of the man his son had become, and they were devoted to each other.

Bill was selfless always placing the needs of others especially his family before his own. He worked hard his entire life and was known for his kindness, generosity, steady presence and unwavering love. Above all he adored Shirley more than anything in this world. His love for her was evident to everyone who knew them.

Bill was deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, loyalty, strength and quiet devotion will live on through his family and the many friends whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered.

Rock and I would like to thank some very special people in Bill’s life and ours.

To Dr. Mike Caldwell, who Bill considered not only his doctor but his friend. Dr. Mike never failed to have the time to talk to Bill when he called. Rock and I thank him for his prayers and his caring heart. To his special nurse, Lisa, we love you for always being there for us.

To Ed Hicks, who Bill thought of as the second son he never had. Ed was there for us day or night whenever we called. What a special person Ed is. Love you.

And to our great neighbors for all that you have done for us over the years. Jeff and Christy Shawan, Christina Shawan and Denise.

To Bill’s two friends Howard Adams and Speedy Ketcherside, who never failed to call him and encourage him.

The family thanks Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home staff for all their help.

To a very special friend Vickie Quade who helped Rock and me with this. Right now our hearts are truly breaking so there’s not way we could have done this without your help and love.

We want to thank everyone who have shared food, phone calls and most of all your prayers.

Love to all of you.

Rock and Shirley.

A golden heart stopped beating, your working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, he only takes the best.

There are no plans for a celebration of life at this time.