CHAPECO, BRAZIL — Ellen Theresa Bailey, 92, was ushered into the presence of Her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, May 5, at Unimed Hospital in Chapeco, Santa Catarina, Brazil. She was a devout Christian and dedicated her life to serving the Lord. The daughter of the late Arthur and Helen (Bachmann) Colwell, Ellen was born in New York City on July 5, 1924. She graduated from Morris High School in New York City, 1941, and from Providence Bible Institute (Gordon College) in 1948. She married Samuel Roger Bailey from Auburn on May 27, 1948, in West Auburn. They had a loving and godly marriage of 68 years. Together, they served as missionaries with New Tribes Mission in Brazil for 65 years.

Ellen was a devoted wife and loving mother to her children and a sensitive grandmother and great-grandmother to her grandchildren. She was known for her wisdom and sacrificial life as a humble missionary and faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, a true example of the virtuous woman as described in Proverbs 31. She was a heroine of faith, the kind you usually only read about in books.

She will be remembered for her shy, kind and beautiful heart and very sharp mind. She was conscious of the well-being of others and was always willing to serve them. She loved to spend time on the computer communicating with all her family and friends scattered around the world.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband of 68 years, Roger; her two sons, Roger (Linda) Bailey and David (Diana) Bailey; her three daughters, Faith (Tim) Brennan, Grace (David) Fread and Hope (Sandro) Rancan; and her brother Joseph (Marsha) Colwell. Ellen is also survived by 19 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, three nephews, and other beloved relatives and wonderful friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Arthur (Jerry) Colwell, Jr.

Copy the Story Link