Juanita Mae Bailey

Juanita “Nita” Mae (Stone) Bailey, age 88, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on Sunday, December 6, 2025. She was born on August 25, 1937 in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Howard and Norma Stone.

Juanita grew up in Idaho Falls, attending Idaho Falls High School and later Ricks College. She married David Melendez, with whom she welcomed two children, Michele and Mark. She later married her beloved husband, Kay Bryan Bailey with whom she welcomed her third child, Kristina. Together, they built a beautiful blended family, sharing many cherished years together until his passing.

Throughout her life, Juanita devoted much of her career to public service. She worked for the U.S. Forest Service before spending the majority of her professional life with the Social Security Administration, where she assisted countless individuals with their essential benefits. She took great pride in helping people and was known for her genuine compassion and commitment to serving others.

Juanita was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith and dedication to her family and friends were defining parts of her life. She held a deep love for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends who were all truly her greatest joy.

She was passionate about life and enjoyed many activities such as crafting, golfing, bowling, hiking, walking, life-long learning, and dining with family and friends. She had an eye for beauty and always took pride in her appearance—especially her signature red lipstick and nails. Those who knew her will remember her fun, sassy personality and laugh, as well as her kindness, compassion, and willingness to help anyone in need. She was never shy about offering her opinion and was a true mama bear when it came to protecting and supporting her family and friends.

Juanita is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kay Bryan Bailey; her sister, Patricia Azar; her parents, Howard and Norma Stone; her great-grandson, Zachary Summerhays; and her forever friend, Bob Conley.

She is survived by her children: Michele (Melendez) Messina (Thomas), David Mark Melendez, and Kristina Kaye (Bailey) Perkes (Russ); her grandchildren: Jennifer, Nicole (Cameron), Caitlin (Steve), and Kayden; her great-grandchildren: Madison, Kamryn, Ryker, and Zoe; and her siblings: Douglas Stone (Renee), Terry Stone, and LaVon Stone.

The family gratefully acknowledges the compassionate care of Symbii Home and Hospice and the kindness shown from the staff at Oliver’s Restaurant in Pocatello. The family also extends special gratitude to their cherished friend Bonnie Griffin and her family for their lifelong friendship and care.

Scriptures:

• “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
• “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” — Proverbs 31:25 (KJV)
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Juanita will be dearly missed and forever remembered for her love, courage, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, December 15, 2025 at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W Chubbuck Road, Chubbuck, ID. A graveside service will follow at the Rose Hill Cemetery, 2355 Rollandet Street, Idaho Falls, ID.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.