Donald E. Bailey

Donald Elwood Bailey, age 87, of Adrian passed away on Monday, March 25, 2024 at home surrounded by his family. He was born on January 30, 1937 in Blissfield, the son of the late Edwin and Ruth (Hamilton) Bailey.

Donald graduated from Blissfield High School in 1954 and was a member and captain of the basketball team. He was very proud to serve his country in the U.S. Army National Guard. He was a member of the Odd Fellows. Donald was an avid sports fan, coached and played softball, and golf was his all-time #1 sport. He enjoyed watching the Tigers, Lions, and U of M, and made sure that he never missed a game. He knew his politics and enjoyed talking about them. Donald loved to tell stories about his adventures and more than anything, he loved his family so much, was so dedicated, and was the best grandpa and dad.

Donald is survived by his children, David Vanderpool of Mt. Juliet, Tenn., Julia (Michael) Smith of Lebanon, Tenn., and Stephen (Lorie) Bailey of Adrian; five grandchildren, David (Sydnee) Vanderpool, Bethany Vanderpool, Stephen Bailey, Travis (Shelby) Bailey, and Marshall (Savanna) Bailey; and his five great-grandchildren, Kyzer, Mercy, Kayson, Myla, and Kash. Besides his parents, Donald is preceded in death by his siblings, Harold Bailey, Betty Mallory, Herbert Bailey, Richard Bailey, and Billy Bailey, as well as his former wife, Rena.

Memorial visitation for Donald will be Saturday, April 6, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes. Memorial services will follow at 1 p.m. Burial will take place at Ogden Cemetery in Ogden Township with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for future designation.