Marian Patricia “Pat” Ferrebee Bailey of Newport News, VA, age 87, passed peacefully on  September 16, 2025.  Born in the Salem Hetzel’s Lutheran Church in Pine Grove, PA December 2, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Hattie Jones Ferrebee.  She grew up as a member of the Hetzel’s Church.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Samuel “Sam” Bailey; five sisters, Ruth Fisher, Eva Young, Verna Zerbe, Betty Krause, and Dorothy “Cissy” Fegley; and her son-in-law, Timothy Carter. Pat is survived by her four daughters: Melody Bailey Carter of Newport News, VA; Robin Samantha and husband James D. Mathenia of Greenville, SC; Dawn Louise and husband Kevin R. Murphy of Greenville, SC; and Susan “Susie” Bailey Burnett and husband William “Mike” Burnett of Gloucester County, VA.

Pat graduated from Pine Grove High School in Pine Grove, PA in 1955. She later moved to Virginia with her husband, Sam, who served in the United States Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. Pat worked for and retired from Dow-Badische Corporation/BASF in James City County. After retirement, she pursued her passion for helping others by becoming one of the area’s first certified massage therapists. She worked at Kingsmill Spa in Williamsburg and Riverside Wellness and Fitness Center in Newport News, while also running a successful home-based massage therapy business for many years.

Pat was a loving mother, wife, and friend who brought joy to everyone around her. Her smile was contagious, and she had a gift for making others feel loved. She enjoyed traveling internationally, reading about history and medical topics, and exploring travel destinations. Pat’s caring nature and zest for life left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends who offered their support and prayers throughout Pat’s aging journey. They extend special thanks to the staff and caregivers at Commonwealth Senior Living at Gloucester House, as well as the ICU and Palliative Hospice Care Teams at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, for their compassionate care of Pat and her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Pat’s memory.

Cremation services are being handled by Cremation Society of Virginia – Newport News Office. The family will hold a private service. Online condolences may be shared at www.vacremationsociety.com.