Hardin, Wyoming - It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of our beloved Wife, Mother, and Grandmother, Charlotte Jean (Milacek) Bailey, who left us peacefully on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the age of 85.

Charlotte was the heart of our family, a source of unwavering love, strength, and comfort. Her warmth filled every room and her cooking brought us together in the most special way. She loved cooking for her family, and her meals were more than just food, they were love served on a plate, shared across generations.

Kindness defined her. Whether it was a comforting word, a strong hug, or a quiet act of generosity, she gave of herself endlessly and asked for nothing in return.

She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, family traditions, and countless memories that we will hold close forever. Though we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing her spirit lives on in each of us in the recipes we cook, the love we share, and the stories we tell.

She grew up on a farm near Waukomis, Oklahoma, graduated from Waukomis High School, attended Northwestern State College, and later earned her teaching degree from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, Oklahoma. She spent several years in education and influenced many of her children to continue the path of teaching.

She married Charles T. Bailey in 1959. They resided many years in Oklahoma, but Ranchester, Wyoming, quickly became home for the family. Her greatest calling was raising her five children, a motherly role she embraced with unmatched love, devotion, and joy. Charlotte attended many school activities and games. Her presence was constant in the hearts of her children. Beyond her family, she enjoyed the outdoors, sewing, bowling, and coffee with the neighbors.

Charlotte is survived by husband Charles Bailey (Ranchester), Stephen and Brenda Bailey, Charlene and Larry Ketcham, Holly and James Hoffman, Harold Bailey, and Brian Bailey, and brother, David Milacek of Enid, OK. Charlotte was blessed with many grandchildren, including Erik Ketcham, Erin Andersen, Phillip Hoffman, Joseph Hoffman, Hannah Hoffman, Annalee Tromble, Billie Bailey, Grace Bailey; sixteen great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Immanuel Lutheran Church. Immediately following the service a reception will be held in the Immanuel Lutheran Church Parish Hall. Inurnment will take place after the reception in the Juniper Heights Section of the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you donate to Martin Luther Grammar School at 1300 West 5th Street, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Rest peacefully, Charlotte. Thank you for everything.

Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements. Online Condolences can be posted at www.kanefuneral.com.