Forrest "Gump" R. Bailey

Forrest "Gump" Robert Bailey, 46, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, in Staunton.

He was born on September 2, 1978, in Waynesboro, to the late David “Beetle” Lee and Karen “Nanny” Gale Bailey. 

He is survived by his sisters, Mary Lee Bailey and her wife, Brianca, and Krystal Gale Bailey; his daughters, Kielie Shay Bailey and Arieanna “Nana” Bingham; his aunts, Rosemary Bailey and Debbie Brown; his niece, Karmah; the mother of his children, Shannon Shafer; his three godchildren, Charles, Ameriah, and JahCaris Chandler; and numerous cousins and friends.

Gump found joy in the outdoors. It was his natural habitat. A wilderness survivalist. A sports fan, he cheered for the Boston Red Sox, Dallas Cowboys, and NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon. He also enjoyed the thrill of video games and never missed a chance to light up a party with his humor and energy. A devoted father, brother, son, and friend, he’d give anyone the shirt off his back. 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three aunts, Wanda Stockman, Pat Collins, and Barbara Wiseman; his uncle, Robert Bailey; and his sister-in-law, Monica “Mony” Truslow.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date and time. Keep a lookout on Gump’s Facebook page for more info.