Patricia "Patty" Bailey was born on January 27, 1940 to William and Marie Schmitz (Ertz) at the home of her parents near Bonesteel. She passed away peacefully on March 10th, 2024 at the Gregory Hospital at the age of 84.

She graduated from Bonesteel High School in 1958. That same summer she attended summer school in Springfield SD, and then taught school in 1958 -1959 in Norris, SD.  In 1956 Patty was almost 16 years old and went on her first date with her forever sweetheart, Eben.  After going together for 3 years, they became engaged on December 20,1958.  They were united in holy matrimony on June 27,1959.

After their wedding, they went to "hot" Fort Hood, in Texas, and lived in their first home for 2 months while Eben was in the service. A short time after living in Texas, Eben received orders to go to Germany, and Patty joined Eben where they lived off base in a German house.  Their first child Kelly was born in Germany. They were back in the states in 1961, and were blessed to have 4 more children ~ David, Lorie, Lisa and Kevin. It was during this time they started their cattle ranching business near Bonesteel. Life on the ranch was filled with hard work, homemade meals, and family gatherings.

Patty loved her family to the depths of her heart. She was a wonderful cook who fed our souls not only with food, but also instilled in us how to treat others. Patty served everyone before thinking of herself. Patty served for years on St. Mary's Altar Society funeral committee helping people through grief with her gift of comforting food. She served children meals at Head Start, and worked in the Lake Andes Nursing Home serving those who felt her love and kindness in her care and touch.

Most of all, Patty wove her example in her actions to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren or anyone who really knew her and had the time to listen. Patty was able to reach others with her meaningful conversations about you…it was always about the other person, not herself. She truly cared for others, and wanted peace for those she loved.

Patty is survived by her husband Eben and her five children: Kelly (Jody) Bailey of Bonesteel, David (Roberta) Bailey of Bonesteel, Lorie (Kevin) Schoffelman of Tea, SD, Lisa (John) Montgomery of Ankeny, IA, and Kevin Bailey of Beresford, SD, her 13 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren. In addition she is survived by sisters Shirley Pistulka of Grinnell, IA, Carol (Dan) Pistulka of Sioux Falls, SD, and Donna Schmitz of Gregory, SD and her sister-in-law, Margie Schmitz of Helena, MT.

Patty was preceded in death by her parents William and Marie Schmitz (Cozad), her sister Marlene Schmitz, her brothers LeRoy and Bob Schmitz, her grandson Kaden Paulson, and brother in law Kenneth Pistulka.

The family would like to express our gratitude to Amy Bailey who cared for our beloved Mother in her final months. Our Mom loved Amy like her own, and the forever bond they built together. We also would like to express our gratitude to the nurses at the Gregory Hospital.  They were amazing giving Mom and her family comfort in her final days and hours.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials would be donated to the Catholic Church in Bonesteel, SD. Mom was a servant to others until her last breath. Rest in heavenly peace Mom. Until we meet again.

Your Loving Family

Funeral services for Patricia "Patty" Bailey, age 84, of Bonesteel, South Dakota will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 10:30 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Bonesteel.  Burial will be in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Bonesteel.  Visitation will be Friday from 6pm until 7 pm, with a 7pm prayer service, at the church.