In the care of family and a host of dedicated caregivers, Rodger Francis Bailey of Glen Mills,
PA, died peacefully on June 27, joining his Lord and Savior and reuniting with his precious wife,
Betty.

Rodger was born on January 2, 1927, to the late George Bacchus Bailey and Marguerite
Miriam Martin Bailey of Landenberg, PA. The Bailey household was vibrant, with 14 children
who valued music, fun, dancing, games, education, and hard work. Rodger attended Kennett
High School, and in 1945, at the age of 18, he proudly joined the U.S. Army in service to his
country.

Following World War II, Rodger began a 40-year career in Plant Operation and Management
with National Vulcanized Fiber (NVF) in Kennett Square, PA. His natural leadership skills,
integrity, and loyalty made a meaningful and lasting impact on his employees and colleagues.
Rodger went on to complete educational programs at Goldey Beacom College and University of
Delaware throughout his career.

On May 19, 1951, Rodger married Elizabeth (Betty) Flanagan. They were blessed with 70 years
of marriage, showing love, commitment, and hospitality to their family, neighbors, friends, and
community. While raising his family, Rodger contributed his time and attention to the
Brandywine Youth Club sports program, Elam United Methodist Church, and Unionville Chadds-
Ford School District.

Rodger’s retirement was joyful, as he nurtured his love of woodworking, delighted in countless
hours of shared time with his 14 grandchildren, and celebrated the lives of his large extended
family of brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews. He was always ready and available for an arm
wrestling match or a game of cards, chess, baseball, or golf.

Rodger valued faith, family, and country. With the strong Bailey traits of optimism and humor,
Rodger lifted everyone he encountered to higher ground through infectious hope, laughter, and
joy. He was genuine, caring, passionate, and set an example for everyone who crossed his path
on how to live, work, love, and enjoy life.

Rodger was predeceased by his parents, wife, and infant daughter. He was the last living of his
dearly loved 13 siblings and their spouses: Calvin Bailey, Alice Davis (John), Bernice Byers
(Bob), Evans Bailey, Charles Bailey (Mary), Vivian McAneny (Bob), Agnes Bailey, Madeline
Woodworth (Hayden), Phyllis Martin (Norman), Marguerite Crossan (Doc), Ruth Ann Bailey,
George Bailey, and Paul Bailey (Dusty).

He is survived by his remaining four children and their spouses: Gwen and John DiMarco,
Franki and Chuck Burch, Faith and Vic Dupuis, and Rodger and Becky Bailey. Pop’s legacy
lives on through his 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces,
nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. We who called him Rodger, Dad, Pop, Mr. Bailey,
Mr. B., Uncle Rodger…are forever grateful.

A celebration of Rodger’s life will be held at Willowdale Chapel (675 Unionville Road, Kennett
Square, PA, 19348) on Friday, July 14th, at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at Union Hill
Cemetery (424 N. Union Street, Kennett Square, PA, 19348).

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Rodger’s honor can be made to Meals on Wheels of Chester
County, 404 Willowbrook Lane, West Chester, PA 19382. Please designate the Kennett Square
branch.

To view his online tribute and to share a memory for his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com

Arrangements by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square, PA.