Ralph E. Bailey, age 82, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 2:50 am, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Haven of St. Elmo, in St. Elmo, Illinois.

He was born on November 2, 1943, in Clay County, Illinois the son of Forrest and Myrtle (Potts) Bailey. Ralph was united in marriage with Charlene Burton on September 14, 1968, in Clinton, Illinois, and they shared 57 years of marriage.

Ralph devoted much of his life to the land, nurturing it with a dedication that reflected his deep appreciation for nature. He spent countless hours outdoors, where he found joy and solace amidst the beauty of the world around him.

Ralph's commitment to service was evident during his time in the United States Army, where he served honorably during the Vietnam War. Stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska from 1965 to 1967, he exemplified the values of courage and dedication which would carry through to every aspect of his life upon returning home.

An avid outdoorsman, Ralph cherished the moments spent hunting coon and quail, relishing the thrill of the chase and the tranquility of the sport. His love for fishing brought him much joy. Ralph also had a keen interest in collecting; he frequently attended flea markets and knife shows.

Ralph shared a profound bond with his dog, Sadie, often taking leisurely rides together around the countryside. These simple yet fulfilling moments defined the essence of Ralph's life, highlighting his love for companionship and the great outdoors.

Ralph is survived by his wife: Charlene Bailey of Louisville; 2 sons: Trent Bailey of Flora, and Travis Bailey of Louisville; step daughter: Chyanne Richardson of Mt. Vernon, Illinois; 2 step-grandchildren: Rosalie and Nova Schoonover of Mt. Vernon, Illinois; 2 sisters-in-law: JoAnn Bailey of Sailor Springs, Illinois, Iris Bailey of Pana, Illinois; a special niece that has been a wonderful caregiver for Ralph: Tammy Bailey of St. Marie, Illinois.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter: Jennifer Bailey; daughter-in-law: Samantha Bailey; his siblings: Agnes Coe Dell Hilligoss, Forrest Berdett Bailey, Lloyd Othal Bailey, Arden Barnell Bailey, Arthur Leon Bailey, Clifford W. Bailey and Eileen Green.

Funeral services to celebrate Ralph's life will be held at 1:00 pm, Friday, January 16, 2026, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville with Tim Schnautz officiating. Burial will follow at Red Brush Cemetery, Louisville with military honors presented. A visitation will be held on Friday at the funeral home from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Ralph's memory St. Jude Children's Hospital with envelopes available at the funeral home.

The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or to share a memory or story of Ralph, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.