
Richard, also known as “Dick” or “Chet” to family and friends, was born November 24, 1932 in Powell, PA, a son of the late Aaron W. and Ethel I. (Stone) Bailey. He was a 1950 graduate of Towanda High School before serving our country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. On April 20, 1957 he married the former Patricia A. Morse in the East Canton United Methodist Church. They shared over 60 wonderful years together and raised two children. In early years, Dick worked at Canton’s Bellows Valvair. He then was an agent with Prudential Insurance and Securities until retiring after 23 years. After retiring, to keep busy he worked as a security guard for the DuPont Co. in Towanda.
Dick was very active in his community and was blessed with many friends. He served as LeRoy Twp. Constable for many years, was a life-member of Canton’s V.F.W Post 714 and the Wheel Inn Club in Roaring Branch. Dick was a long-time member of Mountain Top Hunting Camp and a former director and president of Canton’s Rod & Gun Club. He was active in the Canton F. & A.M. Lodge 415, the Scottish Rite in Towanda and the Williamsport Consistory. He was a former director of the Canton Area School Board, a Canton Moose Lodge 429 member for many years and a Mid-Florida Lakes Homeowners Association member in Leesburg, FL.
He and his wife Pat enjoyed many winters in Florida, not only to be nearer the grandkids, but for the shuffle board playing, bike riding and golf cart driving which became enjoyable past times.
In addition to his beloved wife Pat, surviving are two daughters; Pamela Collins of Granville Summit and Susan (Steven) Scott of Leesburg, FL, two granddaughters; Stephanie (John) Gardner and Stacey Scott (fiancé Danny Dorminy) all of Lady Lake, FL, a sister, Marjorie Douglas of Buffalo, NY, several nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son-in-law, David M. Collins, a brother and sister-in-law; Jack S. and Betty Bailey and brother-in-law, Francis Douglas.
The family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, October 27th, at the Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton. Pastor Larry Jennings, Jr. will officiate the funeral service at 3 p.m. Saturday with military honors accorded at the funeral home.
Masonic service will be held at 5:30, prior to funeral service. Burial will follow in LeRoy Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in his name to the V.F.W. Post 714, 28 Troy St. Canton, PA 17724 or to a charity of one’s choice. Share memories and condolences at www.pepperfuneralhomes.com