Evelyn Bailey, 85, was born on August 23, 1940, in Pembroke, Virginia. She peacefully transitioned from this life after a full life sustained by her love for God, family, and friends.

She was the beloved daughter of the late Ernest L. and Laura E. Beck. Evelyn was the eldest of 10 children.

Evelyn was a high school graduate who showed great determination and dedication throughout her life. She received several awards and recognitions for all she accomplished.

While in Columbus, Ohio, Evelyn met Otis C. Bailey. They were later married in Virginia before moving to Cleveland. They were married for almost fifty years.

A talented chef, Evelyn had an amazing love for cooking and creating recipes. She shared her craft at Severance Shopping Center, Halle’s, and finally with Case Western Reserve University, where she retired. She enjoyed sharing how to prepare certain dishes and put a lot of love into her craft.

Evelyn was a devoted child of God. She sang in the church choir at St. Peter’s in Cleveland before joining Grace Missionary Baptist Church. She faithfully attended services under Reverend Boykins every Sunday until the pandemic.

Evelyn also had a great love for gardening and flowers. She loved her family and friends and always showed this.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Otis C. Bailey Sr., in 1995, and their daughter, Sheila C., in 2019. She was also preceded in death by six siblings: Louise, Catherine, Violette, Thelma, Richard, and Ernest L. Jr.

Evelyn leaves a lasting legacy of service, faith, and love, which will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her two loving children: Jacqueline (Garrett) and Otis C. Jr. (Shanita). She is also survived by three sisters: Georgia, Sallie, and Sarah. Evelyn leaves behind 4 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends who will dearly miss her smile, calls, talks, laughs, and loving and kind spirit.