Our beloved wife, mom and grandma, Susan “Sue” Lynn Bailey, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2026. She was 76.
Born in 1949 in Montevideo, MN to Julian and Delores Hembre, Sue grew up in a proud military family. As the daughter of a U.S. Army Sergeant Major, she spent her childhood living in several places across the country and overseas, including Missouri, Alaska, Germany and the Washington, D.C. area.
After graduating high school, Sue began her career in civilian government service at The Pentagon, where she met the love of her life, William “Bill” Bailey. The two were married in 1970 at Fort Richardson while living in Alaska, beginning a loving partnership that would span 56 years.
In 1971, Sue and Bill settled in Grand Rapids, where they built their life together and raised their daughter, Heather. Sue dedicated her career to public service, ultimately retiring in October 2004 as Budget Director for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan.
Above all else, Sue treasured her family. She adored her grandsons, Nathan and Tyler, who lovingly called her “GG.” Whether attending hockey or baseball games, baking, creating handmade gifts, or simply spending time together, Sue found her greatest joy in being a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.
Sue was incredibly talented and creative. She loved knitting, crocheting, sewing, and crafting, often making beautiful gifts for those she loved. She also enjoyed scrapbooking, making over 30 binders that will be a treasured keepsake for generations to come. An exceptional seamstress, she made both her own wedding dress and later her daughter Heather’s wedding dress — treasured expressions of her love and talent.
Sue and Bill also shared a love of travel and adventure. Together they visited many of the country’s beautiful destinations, including Yellowstone NP, Glacier NP, Mount Rushmore, several trips to the Great Smoky Mountains NP, The Grand Tetons NP, Rocky Mountains NP and the California Redwoods. One of their most meaningful trips was an Alaskan cruise in 2005, and a memorable trip to visit many of the places that held special memories from their early years together.
Sue is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, Bill Bailey; daughter, Heather (Scott) Nickelson; grandsons, Nathan (Megan) Nickelson and Tyler Nickelson; her brother, Martin Hembre; Bill’s siblings, James (Donnie) Bailey, Margaret Bailey, and David Bailey; best friend, Kris Brocker; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2700 Fulton Street E. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506, with visitation starting at 10AM. A time of food and fellowship will follow services with brunch being served at the church.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Interim HealthCare Hospice and the compassionate staff at Green Acres in Lowell for their loving care and support. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Interim Health Care and Hospice, 1971 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Ste. 219, Grand Rapids, MI 49525; Green Acres Lowell, 11530 Fulton St E, Lowell, MI 49331; or the *****@*******on.org“>Parkinson’s Foundation, (http://co*****@*******on.org).
3 Responses
Mr. Bailey, Heather, Scott, Tyler, and Nathan, you all have my deepest sympathy. While heaven has gained another angel, we are left to grieve her earthly loss. Treasure your memories, remember the good times. While she might not be physically here, she will still make her presence known. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs!
Sue was a great sister in law! So talented and always smiling! She is missed!
Condolences, Bill, God be with you.
Mike Murphy St. Joe Class of 1966.