Robert Eugene Bailey's Obituary
Robert Eugene Bailey "Bobby", 71, of Groveland, FL, passed away on April 19, 2024. Bobby was born in Bakersfield, CA on April 8, 1953, to his loving parents; Roy and Marie (Betsch) Bailey.
Bobby grew up by the Poca River Valley in West Virginia and relocated to Leesburg, FL in 1964. As a child, Bobby built everything by hand and was known to "MacGyver" anything with his inventive mind. That self taught handyman skill stayed with him throughout his life into his career as an engineer in the aviation industry. Bobby began flying planes at the age of 16, and today, Bobby is extremely well known in the industry as a pioneer and legend.
Bobby flew planes and built aircrafts all over the world and invented the Bailey-Moyes Dragonfly ultralight aircraft and the Connie Amphib "Flying Float".
Aside from working as an engineer, Bobby flew planes at Epcot in Walt Disney World for the "Surprise in the Skies" shows. He was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and he revolutionized hang gliding.
Bobby will be missed and remembered fondly by his family, friends and all who knew the impact of his work for decades in aviation.
Bobby is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Connie Bailey, his siblings; Marlene and Michael, nieces; Ginger and Mira, and nephew; Chick, as well as a student and best friend; Logan Harris.
A Memorial Service will be held in honor of Bobby all day on May 26, 2024 at Paradise Airsports.
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