Rodney Lynn Bailey, 74, of Maxwell Nebraska, passed away on June 29, 2026, at Country House Residence in Kearney, NE, with his loving family at his side. Rod was born on September 20, 1951, in Gothenburg to Lyle and Violet (Sheffield) Bailey. Rod grew up on the family farm southeast of Gothenburg. He attended Platte Valley District #10 and then Gothenburg Public School, graduating with the class of 1969. Following graduation he worked at Healey’s Hay Mill. He attended Milford Tech until he was hired as a machinist apprentice. In 1973, after completing his apprenticeship, he spent the next 43 years as a machinist at UPRR. Rod spent the next 15 years enjoying his love of farming on the family farm until his health no longer allowed it. Rod married Nancy (Beyea) Bailey on June 9, 1973. Cyndi, Michael and Ryan were born to this union.
Rod is survived by his wife of 53 years Nancy, his children Cyndi (John Gilmour) of DeRidder, LA, Michael (Chastin) Bailey of Bennington, NE, and Ryan Bailey of North Platte, NE, and six grandchildren, and his brother Richard (Diane) Bailey of South Sioux City, NE; and numerous other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.
A Celebration of Life will take place on July 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Maxwell Baptist Church with Pastor Robert Litzenberger officiating.
Memorials may be made to Country House Residence or Brookstone Health & Hospice.
Online condolences may be shared at www.blasestrauser.com
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel & Monuments, 620 10th Street, Gothenburg, NE 69138, (308) 537-2313.