Ernest D. “Ernie” Bailey, 72, of New Prospect, Tennessee, passed away on February 13, 2026, at NHC Scott in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. Born on May 3, 1953, in Heber Springs, Arkansas, to Billy D. Bailey and Norma Lynn Verser Bailey, Ernie was known for his strong work ethic as a Maintenance Technician at Modine Manufacturing in Lawrenceburg.
Ernie was a devoted Christian and a faithful member of the New Prospect Church of Christ. He cherished his family and enjoyed spending time with them, tinkering with tools, and lovingly aggravating his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He will be remembered for his kindness, big heart, and the love he shared so freely.
He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Belinda Diane Richardson Bailey; his children, Richie Hutton (Marcy), Marla West, and Tanna Weathers (Chad); his grandchildren, Jodi Lindley (Ryan), Sydnie Hutton, Draven Hutton, Avery Weathers, Toby Weathers, and Aura Weathers; his great-grandchildren, Kaegan Lindley, Henry Gambrell, Aubree Bragwell, Kessler Harville, Charlie Gambrell, and Kalianna Harville; and his siblings, Karen Walker (Earl), Debra Smith, and John Bailey (Ella), along with several special nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on February 15, 2026, and funeral services will be held on February 16, 2026, at Loretto Memorial Chapel in Loretto, Tennessee. Burial will follow at Center Point Methodist Cemetery in Leoma, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation (DRIF) or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
Ernie will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
Arrangements are entrusted to Loretto Memorial Chapel, Loretto, Tennessee.
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