BAILEY, Carolyn Linett (Lewis) 1958-2018

BAILEY, LEWIS, BLALOCK, KELLER

Posted By: K. L. Kittleson
Date: 12/5/2018 at 14:57:08

Carolyn Linett Bailey

Service:
Friday December 7, 2018
Gift of Life Church
1651 Sycamore St.
Waterloo, Iowa

Carolyn Linett Bailey was born on February 6, 1958 in Waterloo, Iowa, to Earnest Bailey Sr and Annie Lewis. She was raised by her grandparents Lounette Blalock and Richard Blalock Sr., in the City View neighborhood of Waterloo.

Carolyn’s great-grandmother Annie Keller was also very influential in raising her. Carolyn had a happy childhood in City View, and enjoyed spending her time with her family, cousins, and friends in the area. Carolyn often traveled to Rockford, Illinois, during summers to visit her mother and sisters.

Carolyn had an immense love for the church. From a very early age, Carolyn was active in Shilliam Church with her grandmother Lounette. Over time, the family Joined Rose Hill Church; and Carolyn joined the family during this transition. At the time of her passing, she was an active member of Gift of Life Church, regularly teaching “Sunday School”.

Carolyn graduated from West Waterloo High School in 1976 while pregnant with her eldest son (Myquawn Bailey Sr). Carolyn prided herself on finishing high school in spite of her being pregnant. Carolyn went on to attend Merit Community College in Oakland, California.

She completed her Associate of Arts Degree at Hawkeye Community College, specializing in early childhood education. It should be noted; Carolyn completed her degree despite being diagnosed with Lymphoma and while undergoing cancer treatments. Carolyn was featured in the Waterloo Courier for her accomplishment.

Carolyn worked for many years as nurse’s assistant at Ravenwood Nursing Home during her early adult life. Carolyn transitioned to early childhood education, and began to work at Grin and Grow daycare after completion of her degree.

Carolyn then moved on to Tri County Head Start, where she would later retire due to health reasons. While at Head Start, Carolyn served her community by working as a para educator for many years. Carolyn was responsible for being the “first teacher” to many children in the Waterloo community, and was loved by her colleagues, parent partners, and the children she lovingly taught.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her great-grandmother Annie Keller, grandparents Lounette/Richard Blalock Sr, and her parents, Annie Lewis/Earnest Bailey Sr. Carolyn is also preceded in death by her sister Dianne Davenport, and a brother, Richard Blalock Jr. Carolyn leaves behind two sons, Myquawn Bailey Sr. and Martavious Bailey whom she loved immeasurably. She is also survived by a host of siblings, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and the community at large.

SOURCE: Parrott and Wood funeral service