Harry Richard Bailey

Harry Richard Bailey, age 79, of Somerville, OH passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at his home. He was born September 30, 1946 in Hamilton, OH to the late Shelby W. and Bertha May (Hilton) Bailey.

A devoted and loving father whose heart was as big and open as the fields he cherished. Harry retired from W.R. Grace in Cincinnati in 2008. He lived a life rooted in hard work, kindness, and the pleasures of self-sufficiency. He poured his energy into farming, salvaging treasures through scrapping, growing his own food and maintaining his land with care and pride. A natural helper, he was just a phone call away - ready to lend a hand with any chore, big or small. Neighbors knew they could always count on him and he took quiet pride in being that reliable person. If you needed an obscure tool or part, an impossible fix, or simply a steady hand, he was the man to call. He loved sharing his fishing tales and work stories with anyone willing to listen, often over breakfast at his daily Waffle House ritual. Through every season of his life, his unwavering willingness to help, his love of telling tales, and his deep devotion to family and friends defined him. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity and quiet strength that will live on in the hearts he touched.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Betty Pearl Bailey; daughter Michelle Renee Bailey; and several siblings.

He is survived by his children Amy (Micah) Hart of Gratis, OH, Robin Sligar of Fort Wayne, IN and Reno Bailey of Camden, OH; stepchildren Tim Crews of Trenton, FL, Richard (Carrie) Crews of Trenton, FL, and Lisa Adkins of Crestline, OH; grandchildren Violet Hart, Jasmin Sligar, Joey Sligar and Neveah Baker; great granddaughter Roselyn Middaugh; and sisters Pam Durbin and Mildred Martin, both of Rising Sun, IN.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 10:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 am at the Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 113 S. Ada Doty Street, Gratis, OH. Burial will follow at Simonson Chapel Cemetery in Jacksonburg, OH. Online condolences and other remembrances may be made to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.