Rodney Bailey Obituary

Rev. Rodney Michael Bailey

August 9, 2025

ELIZABETHTON - Rev. Rodney Michael Bailey, 76, of Elizabethton went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 9th, 2025, at NHC Healthcare in Johnson City. Rodney was born to the late Rome and Marjorie Bailey. He is also preceded in death by his precious sister-in-law, Judy Bailey.

Rodney attended Elizabethton High School where he was student body president. He was also a member of the Boy Scouts of America where his father, Rome, was the scout leader. After graduation, Rodney and Bobbie were married in 1969 and have celebrated 56 years of love. Rodney then attended Free Will Baptist Bible College where he earned his Bachelor of Arts.

Rodney pastored churches in Nashville, Greeneville, and Kingsport until his health no longer allowed. However, his dedication to sharing the Word of God with others never ceased. As a constant encourager, Rodney created The Barnabas Connection, meaning "sons of encouragement," to encourage pastors and missionaries around the world. He also volunteered in various roles with many other organizations, including Free Will Baptist Family Ministries of Greeneville (Children's Home), Camp Joshua (Central Youth Camp), Greeneville Community Ministries, and Pleasant View Christian School.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Bobbie Bailey (Campbell); two sons, Todd (Monica) Bailey and Jonathan (Holly) Bailey; grandchildren, Madison, Allison, Makenna, Matthew, Brianna, and Daniel; his brother, Doug Bailey; and his sister, Loretta Pritchard, and her sons, Terry and John Pritchard, as well as many other family members and friends.

A service to celebrate the life of Rodney will be held on Tuesday, August 12th, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Tetrick Funeral Home in Elizabethton with Rev. Tom Maines and Rev. Ken Smith officiating. The family will begin receiving friends at 5 p.m. preceding the service. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, August 13th, at Happy Valley Memorial Park at 11 a.m. Those that would like to join for the graveside service are asked to meet at Tetrick Funeral Home at 10:30 a.m. to go in procession.

Pallbearers will include family and close friends. Honorary pallbearers include Terry Pritchard, Randy Singleton, Dave Bennett, Dr. N. Robb Whaley, and the Carter County Rescue Squad (as they have carried him more than anyone!)

The family would like to extend special thanks to Amedisys Hospice Care of Elizabethton, nurses and staff at NHC of Johnson City, Amedisys Home Health, as well as the many doctors and nurses who have cared for Rodney through the years.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to Free Will Baptist Family Ministries of Greeneville (www.fwbfm.com).

Words of sympathy may be shared with the family by visiting our website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is honored to serve the Bailey family. Office phone: (423) 542-2232.