Ray G. Bailey, 90, of Mardela Springs, Maryland, passed away on July 22, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

Ray was born on April 24, 1936, to Claude and Edna Bennett Bailey in Baltimore, Maryland. One of nine children, he spent his childhood summers working on the family farm in Mardela Springs. At the age of 11, his family made Mardela Springs their permanent home, where Ray would spend the rest of his life building a legacy of faith, family, and service.

Ray graduated from Mardela High School in 1954. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force until 1959. He later began a long and dedicated career with the Maryland State Highway Administration, retiring after 44 years of service as the Resident Maintenance Engineer for Wicomico County.

Ray shared 65 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Shirley Milligan Bailey. Together, they built a life grounded in love, hard work, and devotion to their family. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

In addition to his wife, Shirley, Ray is survived by their two children, Stephanie R. Moses and Clayton L. Bailey (Jamie); six grandchildren: James Bailey (Brittany), and their children, Dresden and Raelynn Bailey; Michael Moses (Jenny); Madeline Bailey; Bailey Moses; Travis Bailey; and Dylan Owens (Michaela), and their children, Harrison and Blair Owens. He is also survived by his youngest brother, Steve Bailey (Judy), along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Edna Bailey, and seven of his siblings: Bobby Bailey (Mary), Peggy and Ralph Tavel, Shirley and Joe Flaig, Clara "Tootie" Willin and Benny, Jimmy Bailey (JoAnn), Jack and Dora Bailey, and Scott Bailey (Debbie).

For more than 60 years, Ray was a member of Masonic Temple Lodge No. 170 and Athol Mt. Pleasant Church. He was also a lifetime member of the Cambridge Elks #1272 and a member of Salisbury Moose Lodge No. 654, where he and Shirley spent many evenings dancing to the music of the Barren Creek Band.

Additionally, Ray was a charter member of the Mardela Recreation Commission and served as President of the Town Council for the Town of Mardela Springs. During his time on the Council, he led the efforts to establish the town’s boat ramp.

His commitment to service continued through the Sharptown American Legion, where he served as both Vice Commander and Commander alongside his fellow veterans.

Outside of his many commitments, Ray found joy in life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed coaching the Mardela Recreation League Chargers softball team, golfing, and taking his daily walks at the mall. He was also an avid collector of vintage petroleum cans, a hobby he enjoyed for many years. More than anything, Ray loved spending time with his family, sharing stories, and making memories with those he loved.

Ray will be remembered for his steady presence, his love for his family, and his willingness to help others. His legacy will endure the values he instilled, the lives he touched, and the generations who will proudly carry his memory forward.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026.from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, and also on Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00, followed by a Masonic Service and funeral service which begins at 11:00. Interment with military honors will follow at Mardela Memorial Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Temple Lodge No. 170, P.O. Box 13, Mardela Springs, MD 21837.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home of Delmar.