Robert E. Bailey, 80, of Dalton, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, July 24, 2013, at Hamilton Medical Center in Dalton. Born on March 5, 1933 in Anniston, Alabama, he was the son of the late Robert Emerson and Annis Brock Bailey.  He graduated from Auburn University in 1955 with a BS degree in textile chemistry and was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.  After graduation, he proudly served in the United States Army and then began a distinguished career as a textile chemist, most recently with BASF Fiber in Dalton.  He was very active in the First United Methodist Church in Dalton; he was Sunday School secretary for twenty five years, served on the Church Council, and was a member of the Friendship Sunday School Class. Bob was married to the former Virginia Ector Fort for more than 54 years and in addition to her, he is survived by his three children, Laura Bailey Friend and her husband Buddy of Marietta, Georgia, Marc Bradford Bailey of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Robert Emerson Bailey and his wife Amy of Cumming, Georgia.  He is also survived by two grandchildren, Kayla Murray and Carson Bailey, and one great grandchild, Livia Murray.  In addition, he is survived by his sister Catherine Crowder of Auburn, Alabama. The family will receive friends at Dalton First United Methodist Church from 2:00 until 4:00 PM on Monday, July 29, 2013, following a private graveside service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Dalton First United Methodist Church, South Thornton Avenue, Dalton, Georgia, 30720; Ross Woods, P.O. Box 307, Dalton, Georgia, 30722; or to one's favorite charity.