Obituary of Nella Downey Bailey
Rusty Bailey quietly went to be with the Lord on August 3, at the Richfield Senior Retirement Center. She was 88 years old. Born on September 19, 1928, she enjoyed her final years in assisted living in Salem.
Her life started in Hot Springs, Virginia and her childhood was spent in Bland County and Marion. She was the next youngest person of eight children and daughter of Jonas and Pearl Purkey.
Proceeding her in death were her parents; brothers, Delbert, Richard, Miles, and Billy Purkey; sisters, Iona Loving and Fannie Miller; husband, Meade Bailey; and youngest son David Downey of South Carolina.
She is survived by brother Bobby (Faye) Purkey of Galax, Virginia, her oldest son Joseph (Jackie) Downey, grandchildren Jason (Rachel) Downey, Jenger (Jeff) Schmersal, and great- grandchildren Simon and Max- all of Ohio.
Rusty was employed by Roanoke Memorial Hospital Rehab Center as a LPD Nurse. She was always proud of her nursing career and accomplishments.
She was always a big fan of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Smokey Mountains, she enjoyed all nature and wildlife. Her special love was her pet dog Katie.
Our family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the kind and compassionate staff of Richfield Senior Living for their attentive and thoughtful support.
Arrangements will be handled by Simpson Funeral Home with a private graveside service, September 16, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Sherwood Memorial Park.
