William Ray Bailey, aged 88, of Athens, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 28th, 2025, at his residence. Born on August 20th, 1936, in Birmingham, Alabama, he was the son of the late William Ray Bailey, Sr. and Evelyn Elizabeth Karr Bailey.
William is remembered by his wife, Nancy Bailey, and his son, William Ray “Trey” Bailey, III. He is also survived by his sister, Elizabeth Fossett, and his niece, Melanie Varnell, along with her husband Tom.
William was preceded in death by his parents.
A graveside service to honor Mr. Bailey’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Athens City Cemetery. The service will be officiated by Gary Anderson.
Mr. Bailey began his career by inspiring young minds as a teacher at Tanner High School. In 1966, he took his talents to NASA at the Marshall Space Flight Center, where he served as an aerospace engineer. His work contributed to the country’s advancements in space exploration, a legacy that will endure for generations.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in William’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to a charity of your choice.
