Funeral services for Ernest Lee ‘Ernie’ Bailey, 75, Tonganoxie, will be at 10 am Monday at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Mr. Bailey died unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 13, 2020, at his home.
He was born November 16, 1944, in Lawrence, the son of Everett L. and Frances Wilson Bailey. He attended Lawrence schools. He served in the United States Army Reserve. Ernie worked at Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant in DeSoto for five years, and later began working for FMC/ICL in North Lawrence as a pipefitter and mechanic, retiring in 2012 after 37 years of service. In his spare time he enjoyed family dinners, repairing clocks, collecting watches, BBQ, hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, and talking to anyone and everyone!
Survivors include his longtime companion, Sandra Wiehe, of the home; a son, Brian Bailey, Lawrence; three daughters, Sherri Wiehe, Topeka, Stacey Wiehe, Petersburg, Va., and Renea Roth and husband Kevin, Dalhart, Tex.; five grandchildren, Casey Bailey, Keera Bailey, Addisyn Wiehe, Emilee Roth and Jeremey Roth; and one great grandchild, Caydence Roth. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, ‘Bud’ Bailey and Eldon Bailey, and a son, Evan Bailey.
The family will receive friends on Sunday from 4 to 6 pm at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions are suggested to The Salvation Army, in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, KS, 66044.
RIP Ernie. Condolences to the family.
So sorry for your loss. Ernie was my first cousin. As a little girl he, Bud and Eldon were my idols.
Ernie you will always be in my heart and soul. Best uncle ever!!! Wonderful memories I will remember growing up. Love you. Brian you remember I’m always hear for you.
I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences and prayers to Stacey family!!
Ernie was a big part of our Family. He treated everyone with respect and kindness. He will never be forgotten. He will be missed beyond words On Eagles Wings My Friend
Ernie and I grew up as neighbors in the late 40’s and early 50’s. We played hard and would pitch tents in our yards and camp, just did all that kids and friends did. During that time the schools in North Lawrence were segregated, him going to Woodlawn and me to Lincoln. But everyday after school, I would find Ernie waiting for me at the corner at North 7th and Elm so we could walk home together and play. After the schools integrated Ernie would meet me at his or my classroom so we could continue our friendship. Years later I joined the Marine Corp and stayed for a 20 year career and our relationship wandered, but our friendship remained. Thanks for being in my life friend, I’ll always remember you. Bill Shepard
My sympathy to family and friends! Ernie was my second cousin! So sad and very sorry!
My condolences to Sandy, Brian and the rest of the family.
Rest in peace old buddy. I will always remember the great times we had together. I’m sorry we didn’t get to see more of each other in retirement. Keep a seat warm for me. Until we meet again. Love ya man.
I loved Ernie with all my heart. He was always kind, caring, and considerate of all of us girls. He always said “Call us if you need anything” as we left on our trips home. I will truly miss him and his stories and his laugh. My heart is hurting.
Hey Brian sorry for your loss. Enjoyed working with you at Hallmark. Tracy Dethloff