Bernard Lee Bailey, Jr.

Bernard Lee Bailey Jr. (“Bernie”) passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 10:40 p.m.

Bernie was born on June 12, 1950, in McComas, West Virginia, to Bernard Lee Bailey Sr. and Ruth Edith Hornig, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Rita Sherry Farrell, and his sister, Laura.

He is survived by his children, Kimberley Rose and son-in-law Patrick, Cristin Lynn, Matthew Paul, Bernard Lee III and daughter-in-law Sulika; his grandchildren, Arreanna Schmude, Phersephanie Schmude, Jacob Gray, and Daniel Lee Bailey; and his sisters, Ellynn and Wanda.

Bernie lived in West Virginia, Colorado, and California for most of his adult life, with shorter periods spent in Texas and Wisconsin.

Bernie was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was baptized on January 3, 1970. He was ordained an elder on February 28, 1971, served a mission in Central America, and later held various church callings, including seminary teacher, Gospel Doctrine teacher, and High Priests Group leader.

Bernie dedicated much of his life to teaching elementary school, primarily 3rd and 5th grade. He spent most of his career at California Creative Arts Elementary School (now Manuel A. Salinas Creative Arts Elementary School), where he was known as a strict but fair teacher who cared deeply about his students.

In addition to teaching, Bernie held a variety of roles throughout his life, including owning and operating a pet store, working in cabinet making, teaching cake decorating classes as a certified Wilton instructor, and hosting a home gardening radio show. His classroom and home often reflected these interests, with animals frequently present. He was especially known for his ability to quickly earn the trust and affection of animals—much to the occasional frustration of their owners.

In his later years, Bernie was supported by his daughter Kim, her children, extended family, and those close to him, including his former wife, Roberta Thiry; Jamie Lucas and her children, Abel and Caden; and his close friends, Aurora and Steve Farley, all of whom assisted in his care. While residing at Woodside Lutheran Home, Bernie formed friendships with many of those who cared for him. His family would like to express their gratitude to Woodside Lutheran Home for the kindness and compassion shown to their father.

Bernie enjoyed jokes and teasing, and those who knew him often described him as one of a kind. He is remembered with love by his family and all who knew him. His life reflected dedication and perseverance, and he will be remembered for his intelligence, humor, curiosity, and deep love of animals, gardening, and science.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.