Buddy Bailey

Thaddeus Matthew “Buddy” Bailey, III, 74, passed away at home under Agape Hospice care 4/27/2025. Buddy was born in Ridgeland, SC, November 13, 1950 to the late Thaddeus M Bailey, Jr and Nell Cooler Bailey. He went to Abraham Baldwin after high school graduation from Ridgeland High School in 1969 where he received an Associate Degree in Agriculture. He then transferred to the University of Georgia and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture in 1973.

After college graduation, he went to work for the Hilton Head Island Company and Port Royal Properties Association for a combination of 35 years. His entrance at Port Royal won the prestigious Entrance Award for “Best Entrance on the Island” for 5 years in a row. Flowers were his passion and he was a beautiful landscaper. He served his church in many ways at Euhaw Baptist Church in Ridgeland, SC, as a Deacon, Chairman of Deacons, Vacation Bible School Director, Sunday School Director, and Sunday School Teacher.

Buddy and Stephanie Wilson Bailey were married 30 wonderful years. He is the father of Zealy Bailey, Thaddeus M. Bailey IV (Jennifer) and he and Stephanie have two children -Jessica B. Harry (Chris) and Joseph M. Bailey (Grace). He is proceeded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife, four children, their spouses, 6 grandchildren, his brother Michael Bailey (Heidi), his nieces, and great nieces and nephews.

A special message from Buddy “the Lord has blessed me so much. Even through cancer, divorce, sickness, and loss of parents, I have felt Him with me. He is my peace and comfort and has never left me even if I deserved for him to do so….He never has. I am so thankful for my Lord and for the home I’m headed to where I hope to see everyone I know and love one day. “

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:00pm at Vaigneur Funeral Home, 6802 Tillman Road, Ridgeland, SC. The family will receive guests starting at 5:00pm until the hour of service.

A private family burial will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.stjude.org

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