Ralph Franklin Bailey, 92, of Hanover, Illinois passed from this life on Monday, October 28, 2024 in Belleville, Illinois.
Ralph was born on February 16, 1932 on his grandparents’ farm in Hanover, Illinois.
Ralph is survived by his two daughters, Deborah A.B. (Joel) West of Granite City, IL and Elaine M. (John Heger) Boide of Gravois Mills, MO. Two grandchildren, Amanda (Steven) Renken and Christopher Boide. Five great grandchildren Lyam, Bailey, Fiona, Keira, and Ryan. He was proceeded in death by his parents Frances (nee Diehl) Bailey and Ralph M. Bailey along with 6 of his ten siblings. First wife Vonda Bailey, Grandson Phillip E. Boide Jr, and second wife Ruby Bailey.
Ralph was a graduate of Savanna, IL High School. After high school he worked at the Savanna Army Depot and the Burlington Northern Railroad before joining the Air National Guard. He then married and joined the U.S. Air Force as a jet engine mechanic. He was stationed in Germany and many other duty stations before returning stateside after 10 years of service. He received a Medical Honorable Discharge from the Air Force. After his recovery he went back to work at Scott Air Force Base doing exactly what he did while on active duty status. Ralph’s total military and civil service to the Air Force and the country he loved, totaled almost 50 years.
He was an avid motorcyclist, member of American Legion Riders Chapter 365, and American Legion Post 365. He loved to travel, liked country music, dancing, and reading western novels.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church, 2001 St. Claire Avenue, Granite City.
Visitation: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Memorial Service: 11:30 a.m.
Burial Service at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.
Memorials in honor of Ralph may be sent to St. John Lutheran Church.
Arrangements by Thomas Saksa Funeral Home.