In Christian Hope: Service for Roger and Kristine Bailey to Be Held January 17 at Community Lutheran in Las Vegas
With deep sadness and in Christian hope, we share the news of the death of Roger and Kristine Bailey. We grieve this profound and tragic loss and hold their family, their congregation, and the Las Vegas community in our prayers.
A service celebrating the lives of Roger and Kristine Bailey will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 am at Community Lutheran Church.
Roger was a steady, prayerful, and deeply committed leader in the Grand Canyon Synod. He served on Synod Council from 2019–2025 as the representative of the Colorado River Conference 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.
Roger also represented our synod at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Churchwide Assemblies in 2019 and 2022. His reflections following the 2022 Assembly revealed a heart that rejoiced in the diversity of the church and a hopeful commitment to how we live out the gospel together. He celebrated worship in multiple languages, the leadership of people from many backgrounds, the growth of global partnerships, and the church’s ongoing call to justice, care for neighbor, and faithful service.
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.
Beyond his church leadership, 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 speak of his kindness, steadiness, integrity, gentle humor, and deep care for people. He loved walking, swimming, reading, watching movies, and time spent 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
We commend Roger and Kristine to God’s eternal care and entrust all who mourn to the promises of Christ, who holds life and death, sorrow and hope, in mercy and love.
“Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.”
If you or your congregation need pastoral support during this time, please contact the Office of the Bishop.
