Howard W Bailey

Howard Bailey, age 85, of Niceville, Florida, passed away on 7 Jul 2017.

He was born to George and Ethel Bailey Sept 2, 1931 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

He will be remembered for the patriotism to his country, leadership in his community, love of God, and dedication to his children and family.

Howard was the last remaining patriarch in his family.  He was predeceased by his wife Viola Bailey and by his two daughters Ruby McMellen and Teresa Bailey.  He was also predeceased by his three brothers Daniel, Richard and Wilson, and his only sister Norma J. Rittenhouse.  In addition, he is also predeceased by his parents and all grandparents.

Howard is survived by his children Michael, Launa, Terry, Mark, Kyle, Keri Pryor and Cynthia Lindgren, his many grandchildren, his nephew Tommie J. Rittenhouse, and nieces Sherry Hamman and Roma Rittenhouse.

Howard joined the US Navy on Oct 13, 1948 and completed his active duty commitment on Feb 13, 1968.  On September 1, 1978, Howard retired from the Navy after completing thirty years of active and inactive service.  During Howard’s military career, Chief Petty Officer Bailey (ABHC) served aboard Naval carriers USS Kearsarge (CV-33), USS Bennington (CVS-20), USS Oriskany (CVA-34), USS Independence (CVA-62), USS Intrepid (CVS-11), and Attack Squadron 122.  He served during the Korean and Vietnam Wars with distinction.  Among his numerous decorations, he received five Good Conduct Awards, Navy Unit Commendation, Korean Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Campaign Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and two National Defense Service Medals. 

After Howard left active duty from the Navy, he worked as a police officer on the Police Departments in Milton and Shalimar, Florida.  After completing the required service time, he retired from the police work as well. 

Visitation for the Graveside service will be held at the McLaughlin Twin Cities Funeral Home, Niceville, Florida between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Sunday, July 16, 2017.  Graveside service will take place at 1:00 PM, on Monday, July 17, 2017 at the Barrancas National Cemetery, Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society.

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