W. Ralph Bailey

W. Ralph Bailey, 94, of Frankfort, passed away on Thursday, January 19, 2017, at Clinton House Health and Rehab in Frankfort.

He was born September 7, 1922, in Jasper County, Iowa, to the late Alna Z. and N. Elizabeth Criswell Bailey.  On June 3, 1942, he married E. Irene Billman; she preceded him in death on July 29, 2011.  

Ralph graduated from Grinnell High School in Iowa in 1941, and then served in the United States Army.  He was owner and operator of Bailey’s Shoe Dept. in Alden’s.  In 1960, Ralph and Irene moved to Frankfort; he owned and operated the Shoe Dept. at Thrasher’s until his retirement in 1984.  He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and former member of the American Legion, Elks, Moose, and The Odd Fellows.  Ralph and Irene loved to travel and fish.  They had spent several years splitting their time between Frankfort and Florida.

Surviving Ralph are his son, Hal T. (Barbara) Bailey, of Noblesville; daughter, Judy A. Pitman, of Frankfort; daughter-in-law, Beth Jean Bailey, of Daleville; seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, son, Bruce E. Bailey; son-in-law, James E. Pitman; and one great-grandson.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 23, 2017, at Genda Funeral Home in Frankfort from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.  Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 24, 2017, at the funeral home with Pastor Ed Pearson officiating.  Burial will follow in Bunnell Cemetery with military honors.  Memorials in Ralph’s name may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church.  Online condolences may be directed to www.gendafuneralhome.com.