Sarah Evrard Bailey
1942-2026
Sarah Evrard Bailey, born on November 17, 1942, and grew up in Crafton, Pa., passed away peacefully in Naperville, Illinois on February 1, 2026.
She was a dedicated mother, registered nurse and later in life graduated from Seabury Western Seminary in Chicago and became an Episcopal priest who served congregations at Christ Church, Dayton, Ohio; Calvary Church, Columbia, Mo.; and St. Mark’s Church, Berkeley Springs, W.Va.
Sarah, who many knew as Sallie, was a tireless advocate for helping others, dedicating her life to service and spiritual guidance. Her warmth and genuine care for those around her left an indelible mark on the lives she touched.
In addition to her vocation, Sarah was an artist at heart. Her love for nature found expression in her crafting, where she delighted in the beauty of wildlife. She pursued various crafts, demonstrating her creativity and ingenuity through woodcarving, painting, knitting and crocheting. Not one to shy away from unique projects, she enjoyed rubbing flower petals to create nature pictures and weaving rugs and purses from recycled plastic bags.
She is survived by her son, Sam Bailey, and daughter-in-law, Lisa Bailey, as well as her grandsons, Clayton, Barrett, Landon, all of Naperville, Ill.; and Tristan Bailey of Dayton, Ohio. Her ex-husband Charles Bailey of Berkeley Springs, W.Va., and her siblings, John M. Evrard, Judie Evrard Brower and David P. Evrard, also carry on her memory. Sarah’s legacy is one of kindness, creativity and devotion, and she will be deeply missed by her family and all who had the privilege to know her.
Sarah was preceded in death by: John L. Evrard, father; Phyllis M. Evrard, mother; Mary Beth Evrard, sister; Joan Kuiken, partner; and Kevin Bailey, son.
The burial will be private and scheduled at a later date at the convenience of the family.
Gifts in memory of Sallie can be made to your local Episcopal church or to a charity of your choice.