Roger Bernard Bailey, 90, of Franklin died on December 29 at Milford Gardens following a brief illness. He was the husband of Hope (Terhune) Bailey for the past 64 years.
Born in Needham Heights, Massachusetts on September 8, 1935 he was the fifth of seven children of the late Fred and Esther Bailey. He was raised in Needham and lived most of his adult life in Franklin, MA.
In addition to his beloved wife Hope, he is survived by his son Douglas Bailey of Marlborough, and many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Arthur, Frederick, Richard and Robert Bailey, and a sister Rhoda (Bailey) O’Leary.
After graduating from Needham High, he joined the U.S. Navy serving on the USS Hugh Purvis. After four years of naval service, he attended Boston University. He worked for Prudential Insurance for many years. It meant a great deal to him to provide well for his family.
He was a long-time active member of the Franklin Federated Church, serving on the building and grounds committee, singing in the choir, and participating in the men’s group that started the annual church yard sale which continues each fall. He manned his table at the sale just a few months ago. He sang in the choir for many years, and loved playing the organ he inherited from his brother.
He was a great fan of the Red Sox and Patriots, and an avid golfer. He loved to tell the story of getting a hole-in-one on July 12, 1991 at the Glen Ellen Country Club. He was a great cribbage and again had many stories of great hands and last minute, come-from-behind wins in tournaments. For many years he and Hope drove across the country to winter in Palm Springs. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a kindness and ease that made him a great friend to many.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 17 at the Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main St., Franklin, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception there with light refreshments.
There will be no calling hours.
Arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (ginleyfuneralhomes.com).