Barbara Jean Bailey

Barbara Jean Bailey (Olson), age 78, of Sun Prairie, WI, passed away Monday, May 22, 2023, at St. Mary’s Hospital. Born November 26, 1944, in Ironton, Wisconsin, to Walter and Dorothy Olson, she lived her childhood in southwestern Wisconsin. She graduated from Ithaca High School in 1963.

On February 22, 1964, she married Rolland (Ron) Bailey in Richland Center. They then moved to Oregon, WI, where Barb did childcare in her home. She began a career working for WIC where she made many friends. She also sold Tupperware and eventually began working for Hallmark Corporation as a merchandiser. She was still employed until the time of her death.

Barb’s biggest loves were her family and God. She was a long-time member of Bethany Free Evangelical Church in Madison. Her best moments were spent with friends at Gaither concerts listening to David Phelps and supporting her grandchildren in their various activities.

Barb is survived by her son, Kevin (Wendy) of Madison; her son-in-law, Robert Sheehy of Sun Prairie; her granddaughter, Kristina Bailey (Travis Boehnen) of McFarland, WI; and her grandsons, Tyler Sheehy and Quinn Sheehy of Sun Prairie. She is further survived by her sister, Beverly (Bruce) McCulloch of Madison; and her brothers, Cecil (Sheila) Gillingham and Norman Gillingham, also of Madison; plus several nieces, nephews, and a great many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ron; daughter, Deanna Sheehy; her parents; siblings: Melvin (Lorraine) Olson, Sally (Wayne) Frye, Marjorie (Ed) Mehltretter, and Thomas (Dottie) Gillingham.

The Memorial Service to celebrate Barb will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Bethany Free Evangelical Church located at 301 Riverside Dr., Madison. Visitation will begin at 10 AM. The service begins at 11 AM, Pastor Kellen Lewis officiating. A light luncheon will follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bethany Free Evangelical Church.