Lonnie Bailey

In loving memory of Lonnie Bailey, cherished as a son, brother, “Unc,” father, grandfather, and friend. Lonnie passed away at the age of 75 on June 23, 2024, in Decatur, Texas. Lonnie was born in Houston on January 31, 1949, and was the eldest child of Norene and Oliver ‘Millege’ Bailey.

Shortly after graduation from high school, Lonnie served his country as a respected member of the Army in the Vietnam War from 1969 until 1971 when he was honorably discharged.

Though a man of few words, those who knew him recognized the depths of his love, loyalty, and dependability. He may not have been nurturing in conventional ways, but his steadfast presence spoke volumes about the love he harbored within.

Lonnie leaves behind his mother, Norene Bailey, brother Lester Bailey, and sister Sherri Durant. He also leaves behind his nieces, Ashley Noboa and Melissa Shannon, who he helped raise as his own daughters. Other survivors include his nephews Brian Chapman, Johnathan Bailey, and Brett Bailey; nieces Lydia Bailey, Kayla Bailey, Megan Merfeld; and children Jerry and Jennifer. He is also survived by stepchildren Michael, Mark, Gregory and Charles Puckett as well as many other grandchildren, cousins, family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Millege Bailey, brother Gary Bailey, wife Phyllis Bailey, and partner Adrienne Mercuri.

Each of these relationships contributed to the tapestry of Lonnie’s life, shaping him in ways both seen and unseen. His legacy of imperfect love, silent gestures, and quiet strength will forever endure in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him. His passing has left an unfillable gap in our hearts and we pray his memory will forever be engrained in all he knew.

A memorial service will take place in the coming weeks and this page will be updated once all details are finalized. The family asks that any memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donations to Disabled American Veterans or The Terry Scholars Fund. If you wish to send flowers, these may be sent to Ashley Noboa at 4404 East Oltorf Street Apt. 1302, Austin, TX, 78741. These will be preserved as keepsakes for the family.