Ricky Lee Bailey, age 59, peacefully slipped into the waiting arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on December 3, 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Ricky was born on June 18, 1960 in East Orange, New Jersey to Shirley and Velma Bailey. Along with his younger brother Mark, Ricky enjoyed a home filled with love and laughter.
In 1978, Ricky graduated from his beloved St. Benedict’s Preparatory School in Newark, New Jersey with many athletic, academic and leadership accolades. With his trademark storytelling fashion, Ricky often returned to the school to speak on the subject of character-building experiences that began at St. Benedict’s. Years later, he would return to assist in the annual senior class hike through the Appalachian Mountains. In 2004, Ricky was inducted into the St. Benedict’s Hall of Fame. This honor recognizes graduates who exhibited extraordinary achievements athletically or in other leadership activities as students.
After graduating, Ricky attended Monmouth University in Long Branch, New Jersey. While there, he continued playing soccer and flourished as a star on stage in the university theater department. Performing a leading role in Pippin, was one of his many theatrical accomplishments.
On October 25, 1986, Ricky married the woman of his dreams, Stephanie Glaspy. This union brought one daughter, Allyson, of whom Rick was incredibly proud. He always spoke highly of both Stephanie and Allyson. Both women continue to carry his legacy of love and strength today.
Ricky was a faithful member of Calvary Revival Church, Norfolk, VA. Along with his wife Stephanie, he served for years as Care Group Leaders.
Ricky was employed as a payroll specialist at ADP in Norfolk, VA.
Besides spending time with his family and friends, Ricky had a passion for music, sports and volunteering his time. Ricky devoted his energy and love to many people and organizations. To note a few: working as a counselor for Onesimus Ministries, coaching elementary and middle school soccer, coaching high school wrestling, performing with his band Ruckus in the Papers, hosting jam sessions at the Music & Arts store, supporting the Virginia State University Gospel Chorale and so much more.
Along with his wife and daughter, Ricky is survived by his loving parents, Shirley and Velma Bailey of Front Royal, VA, one brother, Mark Bailey and wife Portia of Avenel, NJ, aunts Nellie Barton of Front Royal, VA and LaVonne Moore of Miami, FL, one uncle James Taliaferro of Rankin, PA, and a host of adoring nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Ricky Lee Bailey touched many lives with his generosity and willingness to see the best in every person he met. His openness to the voice of God often allowed him to attend to people in a kind-hearted and genuine manner. Ricky truly “never met a stranger”. His kind words and gestures will remain present in our hearts always.
