Eldon R. Bailey

Eldon Robert Bailey, age 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in The Woodlands, Texas. A native and lifelong resident of Lake Charles, Eldon was born on August 23, 1935, to Eldridge “Bo” Bailey and Willis “Bill” Fisher Bailey.

Eldon’s life was marked by faith, dedication, and a deep love for learning. A 1953 graduate of Lake Charles High School, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from McNeese State University. He worked as a CPA with W.B. Smiley Contractors. He also earned his pilot’s license and regularly flew to different cities and towns around the state. He served honorably in the United States Army before continuing his education at Louisiana State University, earning his master’s and doctorate. His calling to education led him back to McNeese State University, where he ultimately served as Dean of the College of Business, shaping generations of students through his leadership and steady guidance.

A man of strong Christian faith, Eldon was a devoted member of Lake Charles Bible Church, where he also shared his musical gifts as the church organist for many years. He served in many leadership roles in the church including serving as the treasurer. Music was one of his great joys, along with playing the piano, traveling, reading the newspaper, watching the weather, and tending to his garden. He found contentment in simple, meaningful moments and was known for his quiet wisdom and thoughtful presence.

Eldon will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful servant, and respected educator. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the values he modeled, and the quiet faith he carried throughout his life. He now rests in peace, reunited in God’s care, and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish his memory are, his beloved wife of 63 years, Marylyn Fay Collier Bailey; his children, Mary Fay Bailey Dumas (Dusty) and Robert Clint Bailey (Susan); his grandchildren, Sarah Bailey Sullivan (Sean), Robert Andrew Bailey, William Ryan Dumas, and Cameron Bailey Dumas; his brothers, Steve Bailey (Nelda), and John Bailey (Cynthia).

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Linda Douglas (Don).

Dr. Bailey’s funeral will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 17, 2026 in the Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles Chapel, 4321 Lake Street, with Rev. Phil Carpenter, and Rev. Don Barrett co-officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation will be in the funeral home chapel on the evening of Friday, January 16, 2026 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM, and will resume on Saturday morning from 9:00 AM until the start of the service.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff and community of Sundale Assisted Living Community in the Woodlands for their kindness and care.

Memorial donations may be made to Camp Pearl, Lake Charles Bible Church or the McNeese Foundation.