JACKSONVILLE  - MSgt. Kenneth "Beetle" Lynn Bailey, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and proud U.S. Marine, passed away on Veterans Day, November 11, 2024, at Lower Cape Fear Hospice in Wilmington, NC.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Infant of Prague Catholic Church.  Burial, with military honors, will follow at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Montford Landing Road in Jacksonville, NC. Family and friends are invited to attend and pay their respects.

Born on December 8, 1941, in St. Anthony, Idaho, Mr. Bailey was the son of Blaine W. Bailey and Dora Irene Heaps.

He served honorably in the United States Marine Corps for over 20 years, reaching the rank of Master Sergeant. Throughout his distinguished career, he served as an Operational Communications Chief and a Radio Operator, dedicating himself to his duties with unwavering commitment. His service included time spent at various duty stations and deployments, and he was recognized with numerous awards, including the Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device. Kenneth's career was marked by bravery, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to his country.

Beyond his military service, Kenneth was a loving, caring, and artistic soul. He was a talented electrician and master carpenter, known for his skill and craftsmanship. Kenneth had a deep appreciation for movies, especially enjoying the *Perry Mason* series and the *Taken* movie series. He also held a strong admiration for recently elected and former President Donald Trump, finding inspiration in his values and leadership.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly; his sons, Blaine, Jay, and Ken Sr.; his daughter, Lynette Davis; his brothers, Monty Jay Bailey and Darrell Lane Bailey; his sister, Tina Ford-Tunstall; and his cherished grandchildren, Allison Bailey, Cody, Ken Jr., Russell, Zack, Andrew, and Tawny Davis. His family remembers him as a man of warmth, creativity, and integrity, whose presence brought comfort and joy to those around him.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day." – 2 Timothy 4:7-8

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of choice.