Linda Louise (Paine) Bailey

Linda Louise (Paine) Bailey, 78, of Pellston, died on December 4, 2025 after a three-year battle with cancer, at her home and surrounded by loved ones.

She was born on November 12, 1947, in Owosso, Michigan, the daughter of Charles and Louise (Henning) Paine. Linda was raised in Vernon and Durand, Michigan, and graduated from Durand High School with honors. A talented clarinet and oboe player, she was a proud member of the Durand High School marching band. One of the highlights of her youth was performing in the 1966 Rose Bowl Parade and spending a day as guests of Walt Disney.

Linda attended Michigan State University for a time before beginning her career. On August 29, 1998, she married William “Bill” Bailey at the Petoskey Methodist Church.

She spent many years managing the kitchen and bath department at Preston Feather Building Centers, retiring in 2012. Linda was also an active member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association. She later served her community as Center Township Clerk from 2012 to 2016 and as Deputy Clerk from 2016 to 2020.

Linda loved gardening, flowers most of all, and found joy in traveling, taking cruises, and geocaching wherever life took her. She was an avid reader and enjoyed attending concerts and plays. Her faith was important to her, and she especially cherished the summer services at Bay View. Above all, she loved spoiling her grandchildren and keeping her husband, Bill, in line.

She is survived by her husband Bill Bailey of Pellston, Michigan; daughters Penelope Sue (Wesley) Pitts of Tennessee and Stacy Lynn (Erik) Niekirk of Holland, Michigan; granddaughters Riley and Emma Niekirk; and brother Robert Louis Paine of Florida. She is also survived by many cousins, friends, and her ‘adopted daughter’ Sue Stamour.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister Peggy Berecz.

Memorial contributions in her memory are suggested to be directed to Little Traverse Bay Humane Society and Hospice of Michigan. 

There are no services planned at this time. Arrangements are in the care of Stone Funeral Home, Petoskey.