Joseph R. Bailey

Joseph R. Bailey, 95, of Shelbyville, passed away, Sunday, January 7, 2024, at Ashford Place Health Campus in Shelbyville.

He was born March 25, 1928, in Converse, the son of Donald and Roberta (Botkin) Bailey. 

Joseph is survived by his cousins, Betty Ardery of Shelbyville, Sam Ardery and wife, Patty, of Bloomington, Kirk Ardery of Indianapolis, and Jean McGair of Rhode Island.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Barbara Bailey.

In 1946, Joseph graduated from Muncie Central High School, and received his bachelor’s degree from Ball State University.

Joseph was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving as Chief clerk finance office 43^rd infantry Division, from 1950-1952.

He was a member of the Methodist Church.

Joseph retired in 1988, from IBM, with 30 years of service.

He enjoyed playing tennis and was a member of the Innisbrook Men’s Tennis Group in Florida.  Joseph was also a member of the American Legion Post No. 70.

Inurnment will be at a later date at Greenlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Fort Wayne.

Services have been entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches Inc., PO Box 2000, Boys Ranch, Florida 32064-9984.

Online condolences may be shared with Joseph’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.