News Summary
Chattanooga is commemorating the life of Frances “Cricket” Haynes Bailey, a cherished quilter known for her artistic talents and community spirit. Passing peacefully at 85, Cricket left an indelible mark on her family and friends through her love for quilting, community involvement, and dedication to her church. A visitation is scheduled for April 5, 2025, to honor her legacy and the joy she brought to countless lives.
Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of Beloved Quilter and Community Member
In a heartfelt turn of events, the city of Chattanooga is saying goodbye to a truly amazing woman, Frances “Cricket” Haynes Bailey, who passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on March 31, 2025. Known for her warm spirit and artistic talents, Cricket embodied the essence of community and creativity, forever leaving a mark in the hearts of those who knew her.
Born on July 5, 1939, to the lovely parents, Russell and Virginia Haynes, Cricket grew up in Chattanooga and spent her life embracing the beauty surrounding her. From a young age, she developed a passion for sewing and quilting, dedicating countless hours to crafting clothes and stunning quilts that not only showcased her skill but also brought joy to her loved ones. It wasn’t just a hobby for Cricket; it was a way to connect and express love through art.
An active member of several sewing and quilting guilds, she loved bringing people together to share ideas and create. Cricket’s passion didn’t stop at quilting; she also devoted her time to her community by participating in the women’s Bible study class at Ridgedale Baptist Church, where she not only found friendship but also a deeper connection with her faith. With her late husband, Charlie, she regularly attended church services, embodying the values she cherished throughout her life.
Family played a central role in Cricket’s life. Her fondest memories came from family vacations, with Daytona Beach being a highlight for the Baileys. After Charlie’s retirement, the couple cherished their time traveling across the United States, exploring and making new memories that would last a lifetime. Cricket’s love for adventure was matched only by her dedication to her family.
A proud member of Brainerd Hills Baptist Church and the Daughters of the American Revolution, Cricket took great interest in genealogy and family history, often sharing fascinating stories about her lineage. After losing her beloved husband of 61 years, Charles “Charlie” L. Bailey, she continued to hold onto the memories and passions they shared, drawing strength from her family’s love.
Cricket leaves behind her two beloved sons, Charles David (Mary Beth) Bailey of Tunnel Hill, GA, and Troy Alan (Beth) Bailey of Ringgold, GA. She was also a proud grandmother to her two grandsons, Adam and Andrew, who will forever carry her spirit and love in their hearts. In addition to her immediate family, Cricket is survived by her sister, Sandy Rogers, who shared countless cherished moments with her throughout the years.
Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects and share in the memories of Cricket during a visitation on April 5, 2025, from 12-2 p.m. at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery in McDonald, TN, with Pastor David Nix officiating. This will be a time for the community to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of a beloved quilter and friend.
In lieu of flowers, Cricket’s family has requested that memorial contributions be made to the American Diabetes Association, an organization that helps countless individuals manage their health.
Final arrangements have been entrusted to Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, where family and friends are welcomed to gather in tribute to a remarkable woman, whose creativity, love, and spirit will surely be missed by all.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Frances Bailey
- Wikipedia: Quilt
- Heritage Battlefield: Judy Keith
- Google Search: Frances Bailey Chattanooga
- Williamson & Sons: Kay Holland
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Dignity Memorial: Charles Bailey
- Google News: Chattanooga community events
- Companion Funerals: James Francis Davis
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
