Obituary of Paul R. Bailey

Paul R. Bailey It is with great sadness that the family of Paul R. Bailey Sr., announce his passing on December 26, 2021, at the age of 75 following a brief illness. Born on November 29, 1946, the eldest of three children, to the late Walter Bailey and Claudia Hernandez Bailey, Paul grew up in a unique home, experiencing both American and Costa Rican culture. A quiet, shy little boy, learning English was one of his early childhood challenges. He grew up as a protective older brother and loved playing sports with his friends. Paul graduated from Notre Dame High School and Corning Community College. Then along came Machell Mosher, who caught his eye doing the Cha-Cha at the Midtown Plaza block dances. Again, another challenge, however, after 14 breakups, he proposed and the two were married on August 27, 1966. Paul and Machell had 6 children. The fond memories we have as children with Dad from sled riding down our back yard hill, Big Wheel races, squirt gun fights, and coaching his sons in baseball and basketball taught us that true wealth comes from family. Paul worked for Hardinge Brothers for over 30 years, retiring in 2004. He and Machell enjoyed being grandparents and traveling to the beach before Machell’s health declined and she passed away in 2011. Broken-hearted, Paul was strengthened and motivated by his grandchildren. No one could ever cheer them on, be prouder, or love them more than he. Paul is predeceased by his parents, Walter and Claudia Bailey, his bride, Machell, his little sister Claudia Olson, and his baby son Michael. Those who will miss him most, Kimberly & Howard Leipham with Sarah, Katie, and Mikey, Paul Bailey with Mara, Thomas, and Matthew, Wally Bailey, Gary Bailey & Sharece Stroman with Skylar, and his “peachy pie” Donna Bailey. He also leaves behind his brother Carlos (Marcia) Mejia, Atlanta GA, his mother-in-law Joan Mosher, Horseheads, NY, many brother and sister in-laws, and friends both old and new. Relatives and friends are invited to call at Barber’s Funeral Home 413 South Main St. Horseheads on Sunday January 2, 2022, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Paul’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 3, 2022, at 10:00 at St. Patrick’s Church, 604 Park Place, Elmira NY, Father Scott Kubinski officiating. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Elmira, NY. Paul was not an ordinary guy, nor could this be an ordinary obituary. Paul loved to laugh even if others didn’t, made friends out of any and all acquaintances, sometimes to our embarrassment, was convinced that “this would be the year for the Giants”, always wanted anything cold to drink especially root beer, and definitely had room for dessert. Paul was to Jubilee as Norm was to Cheers, everyone knew his name. He also held a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother, knowing that she would one day lead him to her Son. It’s time for us to let you go Dad, to Mom and baby Michael where eternity awaits you, we love you.