Mary Isabella Bailey, daughter of the late Alonzo B. and Ruth J. Wheeler was born on September 11, 1944 in Charlotte County, VA.  She departed this life peacefully on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at the VCU Medical Center in Richmond, VA, surrounded by her children.  She was educated in Charlotte and Prince Edward County Schools. Mary worked as a CNA for many years taking care of others. She was kind and loving to everyone and would always greet you with a warm and friendly smile. Mary was a fashionista and loved to coordinate her clothes, jewelry and purses. Most of all she loved the Lord, her family and friends. She enjoyed watching her grandchildren grow and was so proud of all of them. Mary was a nurturer, she spoiled everyone's children and loved to give them candy. Every night she loved to watch Wheel-of-Fortune and a good Lifetime movie.

Mary was united in holy matrimony on May 8, 1965 to Edwards Charles Bailey and to this union five children were born.

At an early age Mary joined White Oak Grove Baptist Church. Despite her health, she remained faithful to her church and was a consecrated member unto the Lord until her passing. Mary also attended Alabama Baptist Church and Mt. Lyle Baptist Church through the years. She dedicated her life to loving and serving the Lord without growing weary on her journey.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents Alonzo B. and Ruth J. Wheeler; her precious son, Joe Brian Bailey; four sisters, Deaconess Mrs. Alice Moore, Mrs. Earlene Jones, Deaconess Mrs. Thelma Jackson, and Mrs. Hazel Burrell; and three brothers, Mr. Benjamin Wheeler, Mr. Woodrow Wheeler and Mr. Courtney Wheeler.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband of 55 years, Edward Charles Bailey of the home; four devoted and loving daughters, Ms. Joyce Bailey of Pamplin, VA, Ms. Catherine Iwuji of Lynchburg, VA, Ms. Sharon Bailey of Appomattox, VA, and Ms. Garlene Williams of Milwaukee, WI; two devoted and loving sons, Antonio Bailey (Stacy) of Hampton, VA and James Walker of Pamplin, VA; thirteen grandchildren; five great grandchildren; a goddaughter, Raynita Walker of Pamplin, VA; three sisters-in-law, Mrs. Shirley Wheeler of Pamplin, VA, Mrs. Anna Davis (Thomas) of Bennettsville, SC, and Mrs. Mary Goldman of Cullen, VA; a devoted and dedicated friend, Ms. Harriet Corner of Pamplin, VA; and a host of other nieces, nephews and friends. She also had a special relationship with her nieces Mrs. Ruth Burrell and Mrs. Alice Mosley of Appomattox, VA, and Ms. Joyce Coles of Pamplin, VA.