Herbert Bailey

Herbert Bailey passed away peacefully June 1, 2017, at home with his family at his side. He was born to Miles and Leila Bailey on July 11, 1917, in Napa, where he was reared and educated. Herb was one of 12 siblings. 

Music was a very important part of the siblings’ lives. With Herb playing the drums, they formed the Bailey Orchestra and for several years they played for many social occasions, as they were “The” band in the valley.

Herb joined the United States Army in 1942, proudly serving during World War II as a sergeant in post-war Japan.  His skills of operating heavy equipment were put to use rebuilding many of the roads in Japan during the U.S. occupation.  After his military service, Herb worked construction for over 50 years as a heavy equipment operator, and was a member of Operating Engineers Local Union # 3

Herb was married to Evelyn Bailey for many years until her death in 1985.  They had no children.

For the past 30 years, Herb has been the longtime companion of Dolly Pritchett and her family.  Herb and Dolly enjoyed traveling.  They had many wonderful fishing and camping trips throughout California.  Herb became” Grandfather” to Robert, James and Pookie McGlothern and was always interested in all of their school and 4H animal endeavors. In Herbs later years, his care by Dolly was assisted by her daughter, Ailene Pritchett Tarap and son-in-law, Paul Tarap.  

Herb is survived by Dolly Pritchett and two nephews.  Herb requested no services with private internment.

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