Harold E. Bailey
June 18, 1929 – February 20, 2025

Harold E. Bailey, 95, of Cortland, IL, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025. Born on June 18, 1929, in Sycamore, Harold lived a long and fulfilling life marked by dedication, love, and an unshakable work ethic.

Harold spent more than half of his life in Genoa, IL, where he and his wife, Florence, raised their children and built a home full of love, laughter, and tradition. A proud Army veteran and lifelong engineer, he dedicated 35 years to GTE and another 25 years at Sycamore Precision before retiring at the remarkable age of 80.

He was a man of tradition, compassion, and quiet strength, always leading by example. His passions were as enduring as his spirit—he was a true fitness fanatic, logging enough walking miles to have circled the earth four times. A devoted reader, he read the entire fiction section at the Sycamore Library not once but four times over. An avid golfer, he enjoyed countless rounds on the course with his son and friends, finding both challenge and joy in the game.

Harold and his beloved wife, Florence, shared a love of travel, visiting family, national parks, and the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii. At home, he took immense pride in his lawn—lush, green, and free of weeds, even in the dead of winter. He had a sweet tooth for desserts and a heart full of love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In 1994, Harold moved to Cortland, IL, where he spent his final years surrounded by family and the life he had built.

Harold is preceded in death by his wife, Florence Bailey, and his parents, Odelia and Frank Brush. He is survived by his children: Marcia Kreitinger, Donna Harlow (Tom), and Harold Bailey (Teresa); his grandchildren: Michelle Jensen, Jessica Kreitinger, Melissa Tillery, Jeremy Harlow (Tiffany), Cory McIntyre, Dr. Brooklynn Bailey-Gilreath (Ryan), and Brett Bailey; and 20 great and great-great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date for family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Harold's honor may be made directly to the Sycamore Library (103 E State St Sycamore, IL 60178), a place that fueled his lifelong love of reading.

Harold's strength, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his family will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His was a life well-lived, full of love, laughter, and an undeniable zest for the simple joys that made each day meaningful.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com