Betty Ruth Barnett Bailey, 65, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2024, in Statesville, N.C. She was born on January 14, 1959, in Beckley, W.Va., where she spent her formative years surrounded by the warmth of family and the beauty of the mountains.

Betty was not only an accomplished individual, having received a master’s degree, but she was also a person whose greatest joy in life was the love she shared with her family, especially her great-grandchildren. She poured her heart into nurturing those around her, creating cherished memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of her loved ones.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 23 years, Mark Christopher Bailey, who stood by her side through all of life’s journeys. Her legacy continues through her daughter, Michele Samples (Drew) of Georgia, her son, Edward “Eddie” L. Wright Jr. (Amy) of Statesville, N.C., and her daughter, Jennifer M. Wright (Travis) of Harmony, N.C. Betty’s spirit also lives on in her son, Christopher, and her twelve grandchildren, as well as her four great-grandchildren, who brought unmatched happiness to her life.

Betty was preceded in death by her dear parents, Lee Finley “Butch” Barnett and Madeline Forbes Barnett. She leaves behind a cherished family, including her beloved siblings—Frances (Billy), Charlie (Margaret), Lee (Marsha), and Wilma—who will miss her dearly, along with numerous nieces and nephews who adored her.

Visitation will be held on December 22, 2024, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Nicholson Funeral Home in Statesville, N.C. A graveside service will take place at Sunset Memorial Park in Beckley, WV on December 23, 2024, starting at 11 a.m.

Betty Ruth Barnett Bailey’s love and light will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. She taught us the true meaning of family, joy, and enduring love, and her memory will forever be a guiding force in our lives.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.