Bailey Funeral Home

05/27/2026

During Emergency Medical Services Week, we pause to recognize and thank the dedicated men and women who answer the call—day or night—bringing care, comfort, and life-saving support to those in need. 🚑
What many may not realize is that the roots of emergency medical services are closely tied to the funeral profession. Years ago, funeral homes often served as the community’s first ambulance providers. With vehicles, availability, and a commitment to serving families at all hours, funeral directors were among the first to respond in times of medical emergencies—long before modern EMS systems were established.
While today’s emergency medical services have evolved into highly trained, specialized teams, that same spirit of service and compassion remains at the heart of both professions.
At Bailey Funeral Home, we are proud of that shared history and grateful for the EMS professionals who continue to serve our communities with dedication, skill, and heart.
Thank you for being there when it matters most. ❤️

05/25/2026

🇺🇸 Memorial Day Notice 🇺🇸
Bailey Funeral Home will be CLOSED on Memorial Day so our staff may take time to reflect and honor alongside our community.
This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
Their sacrifice is the reason we are able to enjoy the freedoms we hold dear today. It is a day not just for reflection, but for gratitude—for the courage, dedication, and selflessness shown by those who never came home.
We also recognize that Memorial Day has become a meaningful tradition for many families in our community—visiting cemeteries, placing flowers, and taking time to honor loved ones. Whether remembering a veteran or simply cherishing the life of someone dearly missed, these moments of remembrance are powerful and important. ❤️
At Bailey Funeral Home, we are deeply honored to serve all families as they remember, reflect, and celebrate lives that continue to mean so much.
As you spend time with loved ones today, we invite you to take a moment to remember those who made it possible—and those who made a lasting impact on your own life. ❤️🤍💙

05/22/2026

During Dementia Action Week (May 18–22), we take time to recognize the millions of individuals and families affected by dementia—and the caregivers who walk alongside them every day.
At Bailey Funeral Home, we understand how closely memory is tied to honoring a life. As time passes, having plans in place can bring peace of mind—not only for you, but for those who will one day carry out your wishes.
Pre-arranging a funeral is more than planning ahead—it’s an opportunity to thoughtfully record your story. During a pre-arrangement conference, many individuals choose to document family members, relationships, and personal details that may later be included in an obituary. In doing so, you’re helping preserve a meaningful genealogical record, ensuring your family history is accurately remembered and passed down for generations.
Taking these steps now can ease the burden on loved ones in the future, while also protecting the memories that matter most.
💜 This week, we encourage you to start the conversation, make a plan, and preserve your story—because every life, every memory, matters.

05/20/2026

During National Police Week, we pause to honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the men and women who serve and protect our communities each and every day.
From answering calls in moments of crisis to standing as a steady presence in times of uncertainty, law enforcement officers carry a responsibility that few truly understand. This week, we especially remember and pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
At Bailey Funeral Home, we are proud to stand in support of our local officers and their families. We are deeply grateful for their service, their commitment, and the sacrifices made not only by them—but by their loved ones as well.
Please join us in taking a moment this week to reflect, remember, and say thank you. 💙

05/18/2026

There’s something special about taking the time to simply be together. 💛
On Visit Your Relatives Day, we’re reminded how meaningful those moments can be—sharing stories, laughter, and memories that connect generations. Whether it’s a quick visit, a phone call, or sitting down to look through old photos, these small gestures often become the memories we cherish most.
At Bailey Funeral Home, we see every day just how important those connections are. They’re the stories we hear, the lives we celebrate, and the legacies that live on through family.
Today is a gentle reminder—reach out, stop by, and spend a little extra time with the people who mean so much.
Because one day, those moments will mean everything. 💙

05/15/2026

Today, we pause to honor the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of the men and women who serve in law enforcement. On Police Officer Memorial Day, we remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty—protecting our communities, standing for justice, and answering the call when others needed them most.

Their bravery does not go unnoticed, and their legacy lives on in the lives they touched and the communities they kept safe.

At Bailey Funeral Home, we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifice of these heroes and their families. We stand with you in remembrance and respect.

💙🖤 Thank you for your service. We will never forget. 🖤💙

05/13/2026

Today, we’re proud to celebrate National Receptionist Day and recognize two very special members of our team—Neica and Trisha 💛

While many may know them as the friendly faces who greet you when you walk through our doors or the kind voices on the other end of the phone, they are truly so much more than receptionists.

Neica brings not only warmth and compassion to every interaction, but also serves our families as a notary, helping guide them through important documents with care and professionalism during difficult times.

Trisha goes above and beyond in helping families create meaningful and lasting monuments—working closely with each family to design something that truly celebrates and honors their loved one’s life in a personal and lasting way.

Together, they are an essential part of how we serve our community—offering comfort, guidance, and support in ways that often go unseen, but are always deeply felt.

Please join us in thanking Neica and Trisha for all they do for the families we are honored to serve each and every day. 💐

05/12/2026

Ernie Ray Abner, age 81 years, a resident of rural Vienna, passed away Friday morning, May 8, 2026 at 1:58 A.M. at Deaconess Regional Healthcare Services of Marion, Illinois.

Ernie was born on July 28, 1944 to Jesse James and Mary Nancy (Maines) Abner in Waynesville, Ohio.

On September 11, 1966, Ernie was united in marriage to Susan K. Marshall in El Paso, Texas.

In addition to his wife, Ernie is survived by: his children: Diana Lynn Abner-Leggett of Vienna, Illinois, Jeffrey Ray Abner of Morristown, Tennessee and Jennifer Ann (Ryan) Abner-Cavanah of White Pine, Tennessee; grandchildren: Timothy Koval, Austin Abner, Matthew Koval, Koty Wilkins, Megan Abner, Breanna (Noah) Abner-Bain, Brock Abner, Brenden Cavanah and Davis Cavanah; 5 great grandchildren; a sister – Virginia (Jim Bob) McBride; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In addition to his parents, Ernie was preceded in death by: a daughter: Joanne Marie Abner; brothers: Hubert Lee Abner, Jess “Junior” Abner and Stanley Edgar Abner; sisters: Beulah Evelyn Davis, Mary Elizabeth Averitt, Minnie Marie Pedigo and Nettie “Gaye” O’Hair.

Ernie was a 1963 graduate of Vienna High School. Following high school, he attended trade school where he studied welding, electrical work, and mechanical repair.

Ernie proudly served his country in the United States Army. During his service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal as well as a Marksman Rifle recognition. Following his honorable discharge from military service, he began his career as an industrial electrician for Walker Boat Yard. He was also a proud member of the Journeyman Union and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (I.B.E.W).

In his free time, Ernie enjoyed gardening, fishing, tinkering, and working on cars. He will be fondly remembered for his homemade sweet pickles, which were enjoyed by many.

A graveside service honoring the life of Ernie Abner will be conducted Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11 A.M. at Gilead Cemetery. Those attending are invited to gather at the cemetery at 10:45 A.M. Johnny Huckelberry will officiate. Military rites will be accorded.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna, Illinois.

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05/12/2026

🎉🎂 Join us in wishing a very Happy Birthday to Michael Cardinal! 🎂🎉
Today we’re celebrating one of our own here at Bailey Funeral Home & Bailey Monument Company. Michael is a valued member of our monument team, and we are grateful for the care, dedication, and craftsmanship he brings to the families we serve each day.
Please help us wish Michael a wonderful birthday filled with happiness, laughter, and a well-deserved celebration! 🥳🎈
Happy Birthday, Michael! 🎉

05/11/2026

Patti Jordan, age 46 years, a resident of Belknap, Illinois, passed away Friday evening, May 8, 2026, at 9:50 P.M. at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.

Patti was born October 27, 1979 at Southeast Missouri Hospital in Cape Girardeau. She was the daughter of Edward Eugene Smith and Linda (Buckingham) Smith.

Patti was united in marriage to Danny Jordan at the Belknap, Illinois post office. He survives.

In addition to her husband, Patti is survived by: her mother – Linda Hoffman of Carbondale, Illinois; her children – Brooke Gibson of Anna, Illinois, Kayleigh (Cody) Ralph of Belknap, Illinois, and Justin (Raylin) Gibson of Dongola, Illinois; 11 grandchildren – Harmony, C**t, Benjamin, Aiden, Jackson, Damon, Tidus, Kellin, Karter, Sam, and Raeya; a stepdaughter – Casey Danielle Jordan of Metropolis, Illinois; her siblings – Jodi Casper, Nathan Smith, Freda Foster, Zachary Smith, and Brice Smith; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Patti was preceded in death by her father, Edward Eugene Smith, an infant brother – Franklin Smith; and her grandparents – Pete & Freda Smith and Ray & Marie Stevens.

She participated on the girl’s softball team in both junior high and high school in the Anna-Jonesboro school districts.

Patti had been employed as an in-home health care provider by DORS (Division of Rehabilitation Services). Additionally, she and Danny operated a Southern Illinoisan newspaper delivery route for a number of years.

Patti enjoyed collecting antiques and dolphin figurines. She cherished time spent with her family and particularly enjoyed caring for her grandchildren.

Patti was of the Christian faith and was an ordained minister.

A graveside memorial service honoring the life of Patti Jordan will be conducted Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 4 P.M. at Belknap Masonic Cemetery. Pastor Kenneth Capps will officiate. Those attending are invited to gather at the cemetery at 3:45 P.M.

Memorials may be made to the Ronald McDonald House Charities, 4321 Chouteau Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110.

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05/11/2026

To join the livestream of Betty's funeral service, please select the link below. The service broadcast will begin at 12:55 P.M. CST Thursday, May 14, 2026 and will be archived for 90 days from the service date for future viewing. https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/GK4HL8

Betty J. Willyard, 98, of Vienna, passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 7:55 pm at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center in Marion.

Betty was born February 22, 1928 in the Bloomfield Township of Johnson County, she was the sixth child born to Lloyd and Mattie (Taylor) Haden. She married Frank Willyard in 1946 in Murray, Kentucky and he preceded her in death on December 24, 1989.

Betty was an excellent cook and baker, through the years she made and decorated many wedding cakes.

She owned Betty’s Kitchen, a restaurant in Vienna for 5 years. She was a cook at the Jolly Red Pig in Vienna for 10 years as well as working as a cook at the Whistlers and Whittlers Senior Citizens Center for 10 years.

Betty also performed nursing tasks and cared for the ill and elderly, finally retiring at the age of 85.

Betty is survived by her Son – Frank (Linda) Willyard, Jr. of Harrisville, Michigan. Four grandchildren – Angela (Adam) Ackmann of Collinsville, Oklahoma, James (Brandy) Willyard of Lakeville, Michigan, Kimberly Willyard of Deerfield Beach, Florida, Jessica Jo (Daniel Fabian) Willyard of Roseville, Michigan. Great grandchildren – Samantha, Sabrina, Amber, Michael, Chelsea and Great great grandchildren – Shamus, Robert and Harper. A host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her Parents and Husband, she was preceded in death by Sisters – Inez Ross, Clara Drewes and Brothers – Raymond, Randall, Marvin, Donald and Earl Gene Haden, a Great grandson Miguel Mata, Jr., Stepson Larry Willyard, Stepdaughter Johanna Whittaker

A service honoring the life of Betty Willyard will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 1 pm at Bailey Funeral Home with Steve Shoemaker officiating.

Burial will follow in Fraternal Cemetery in Vienna.

Visitation will be conducted Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 11 A.M. until the service hour at 1 P.M. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Simpson Baptist Church, 7095 State Route 147, Simpson, Illinois 62985

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