“Ring the bells for there is great rejoicing!” Roberta Ann Bailey entered the Kingdom of Heaven on December 28, 2015 at the age of 72. Her diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome was treated at Texas Oncology in Midland, Texas. Although the battle was short lived, it was a long haul.Roberta Ann was born to Carl and Roberta Stockton in San Antonio, Texas. Roberta graduated from Breckenridge High School in San Antonio, Texas, then attended the University of North Texas where she earned a teaching degree. She then met, married and followed Larry throughout his ministry career in the Southwest Texas Methodist Conference teaching at various elementary schools along the way for 35 years. She and Larry moved to Midland in 2002 to be with family.Roberta lovingly shared her wisdom and patience with her grandsons about creating things, growing things and being a faithful servant. She continued fulfilling her teaching ministry serving as the nursery school coordinator at St. Luke’s UMC. Guiding children was her calling in life. She was greatly rewarded in this position as she touched the lives of many young children.Roberta’s nurturing touch carried over into her love of gardening. She and Larry created a beautiful yard where they spent many hours together. Roberta also had the passion and gift of being a talented quilter and was a member of the Midland Quilter’s Guild. Her beautiful works of art adorn the lives of her children and grandchildren and provide a lasting memory of her love. Roberta was a true testament of faith and lived her life standing on the promises of God.Roberta is survived by daughters Kathryn Lynn Bailey and Karen Lea Guerra of Midland; grandchildren Chase Carl Locke and Cole Perrin Locke of Midland. Roberta was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, the Reverend Larry Bailey.Memorial gifts may be given to St. Luke’s UMC, 3011 W. Kansas, Midland, Texas 79701 or Hospice of Midland, PO Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702.Memorial services will be held Thursday, December 31, 2015 at 2:00 PM at St. Luke’s UMC in Midland with Reverend Kathryn Boren officiating.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.,
