Lucille Marie Bailey, age 84, of Red Oak, Iowa, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2026, at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital. Lucille was born in Omaha, Nebraska, on September 18, 1941, to Axel and Alice (Floberg) Lantz. She lived in Elliott, Iowa until her family moved to Red Oak, Iowa when she was five years old. Lou was united in marriage to Darwin Bailey on June 12, 1958, in Fremont, Nebraska. They lived all of their married life in Red Oak, Iowa.

Lou embraced life and found joy in family, friends, and community. As one of the first supporters of the Red Oak Tagalongs, she could often be found cheering from the sidelines at sporting events. She was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Creighton Bluejays, rarely missing a chance to follow her teams and celebrate their wins. She was also a successful entrepreneur and owner of All About Flowers & Gifts in Red Oak.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She treasured her Bonfire Bible Study group in Florida and felt grateful to later find supportive Bible study communities in Red Oak.

Lou especially loved traveling — whether overseas, spending time at her condo at Lake of the Ozarks or visiting Texas and Florida. One of her proudest adventures was traveling to Paris, where she embraced the experience and truly enjoyed herself. Her condo at the lake was one of her favorite places, and she especially loved it when family came to visit and spend time together there. Bright colors brought Lou joy, and she delighted in creating fun experiences and thoughtful moments for others. She loved gathering with friends and entertaining in her own unique way — even hosting a luncheon where guests had to bring their own lunch. She was also known for frequent trips to thrift stores, dropping off old finds and coming home with new treasures.

Lou valued lifelong learning and her journey with God. Her family takes comfort in knowing she now rests in His loving grace.

Lou was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Dana Lynette Bailey; husband, Darwin Bailey; sisters, Doris Jean (Harry) Larson, Alice Mae (Earle) Douglas, and Norma (Robert) Anderson; and brothers, Howard (Betty) Lantz and Axel Lantz Jr.

Left to celebrate her life and cherish her memory are her beloved children, Deb (Butch) Belt, Diane Bailey, Denise Bailey, and Brent (Chris) Bailey; her amazing grandchildren, Ashley (Derrick) Schroeder and Dane (Mariah) Belt; her adored great-grandchildren, Carter Meyerkorth, Cooper Schroeder, and Oggie Belt; and her cherished pooch, Arrow.

Though their hearts are heavy, her family rejoices in the gift of having shared life with her and will carry forward the love, laughter, faith, and colorful spirit she brought to every moment.

A private family service will be held and no visitation is planned. Memorials in Lou’s name are suggested to Red Oak First Christian Church or the Red Oak Public Library.

LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.