In Loving Memory of Bobby Bailey: A Life Filled with Love of Family

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Bobby Lee Bailey, a man devoted to love for his family, friends, and the beauty of Ruidoso, New Mexico.

Bob was born in Fort Worth, TX in 1949, to Dorothy Lee and Bradford B. Bailey, a Major in the U.S Air Force. His father’s career took the family to different locations around the country.

Bob grew up in a family of musicians, and attended Paschal High School in Fort Worth, where he was a trombone player in the school’s award-winning stage band. They performed with Doc Severinsen and even gained the attention of The Ed Sullivan Show.

He was then a student at TCU and earned a spot in the university’s band before attending the U.S Army School of Music and joining the United States Army Band, where his specialty was Trombone Player for the 328th Army Band, 4th U.S Army.

After his service, Bob returned to Fort Worth where he married his first wife. In 1977, they relocated to Ruidoso, New Mexico, with their infant daughter, Jill. They owned and operated Storybook Cabins, where Bob used his structural renovation skills to help grow the business and see it flourish.

Building upon his small business acumen, Bob acquired Hi-Tech Fire Equipment, and established it as a trusted, leading fire tech/Installation business in New Mexico.

Bob’s family grew on October 9th, 2004, when he married the love of his life, Gail Bailey, and lovingly became a dad to her two daughters, Misty and Nikky.

Bob will be remembered by his family and friends as a gentle and kind man, ever present in his support for those he loved. He was there for all significant life events, both joyous and sorrowful, working tirelessly to help when needed. He had a sense of humor that could make anyone laugh. From his award-winning Halloween costumes to his silly demeanor, he put a smile on everyone’s face. An intelligent curiosity and keen interest in the world around him fostered a love of history, knowledge of various musical genres, and travel. He spent his life learning and mastering new skills.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness, and a deep appreciation for the wonders of the outdoors. He is preceded in death by his mother and father Dorothy and Bradford Bailey, Sr., brother Brad Bailey, Jr., and sister Sheri Bailey. 

He is survived by his wife, Gail Bailey; daughters Jill (Michael McGovern), Misty (Anthony), and Nikky (Anthony); his grandchildren Gianni Galindo, Layla Maggio, Mateo Mora, Weston Maggio, and Joaquin Mora.

A graveside service will be held on April 5th at 1:30 pm at Fort Stanton Veterans Cemetery. A celebration of Bob's life to follow at MCM Eleganté Lodge and Resort. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Disabled American Veterans.

Bob will be deeply missed. His spirit of adventure, unwavering dedication, and genuine warmth will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him.