In Memoriam: Roger and Kristine Bailey

With deep sadness and in Christian hope, we share the news of the death of Roger Bailey and his wife, Kristine. We grieve this profound and tragic loss and hold their family, Community Lutheran Church, former members of Reformation/Living Hope Lutheran Church, and the wider Las Vegas community in our prayers.

Roger was a steady, prayerful, and deeply committed leader in the Grand Canyon Synod. He served on Synod Council from 2019–2025 as the Colorado River Conference representative and as a member of the Executive Committee. For many years, Roger chaired the synod’s Nominating Committee, and at the time of his death he was actively serving on the Congregational Vitality Team—walking alongside congregations as they imagined new life, renewed hope, and faithful witness.

Kristine was deeply devoted to the life of the church, especially in her love for children. She served faithfully in Sunday school and children’s ministry almost every week and was a steady presence in Vacation Bible School. Through her gentle care, patience, and joy, Kristine helped create spaces where children were welcomed, nurtured, and reminded of God’s love. Her ministry shaped young lives in lasting ways, and her witness of faith will be remembered with gratitude.

Roger also represented our synod at the ELCA Churchwide Assemblies in 2019 and 2022. His reflections following the 2022 Assembly revealed a deep love for the church and a hopeful commitment to the ways we live out the gospel together. He rejoiced in worship across languages and cultures, celebrated diverse leadership, and embraced the church’s call to justice, care for neighbor, and faithful service in the world.

Beyond his life in the church, Roger served the City of Las Vegas for more than 32 years, building trust among civic leaders, neighborhoods, and development partners. Those who knew Roger consistently speak of his kindness, steadiness, integrity, gentle humor, and genuine care for people. He loved walking, swimming, reading, watching movies, and spending time with Kristine, his family, and their beloved Labradane, Rocky.

This loss is deeply felt across our synod. We invite your prayers for:

their family
Community Lutheran Church
the Las Vegas community
Synod Council and colleagues who served alongside Roger
all who are grieving this heartbreaking loss

As memorial arrangements and opportunities for shared remembrance become known, we will share that information with the synod. In the meantime, we commend Roger and Kristine to God’s eternal care and entrust all who mourn to the promises of Christ.