Sharon Mae Bailey, affectionately known as Shari, was born on May 28, 1950, in Watertown, South Dakota, to Orvin and Francis (Behr) Henrichs. She was baptized at the Congregational Church in Winfred, South Dakota. Shari received her education at Madison High School in Madison, South Dakota, graduating with the class of 1968.
On October 19, 1968, Shari was united in marriage to Roger Bailey. The couple was blessed with two sons. Throughout their marriage, they lived in several communities, including Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Spencer, Iowa; South Sioux City, Nebraska; and ultimately Denison, where they made their permanent home. Their moves were made possible by Roger’s engineering career.
Shari began her professional career in photography in 1977 at Jim Bieker Studio in Sioux Falls. While living in Spencer, she worked for Marvin Burke Studio, and in South Sioux City, she was employed by Bobier Studios. After settling in Denison, Shari fulfilled her entrepreneurial spirit by opening her own business, Brass Shutter Photography. Through her dedication and talent, she achieved the distinction of Master Photographer through the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). Her artwork was featured twice in the Worldwide PPA book.
Shari was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, where she photographed confirmation photos for many years. She had a deep love for the outdoors and nature, with a special passion for wildlife, particularly bird watching. Having grown up with horses, she carried a lifelong love for them and spent many years competing in horse shows, barrel racing, and trail rides. Animals held a special place in her heart, and she felt a strong connection to them. Her favorite magazine was Birds and Blooms, which she read thoroughly, becoming knowledgeable about countless birds and flowers. She especially treasured her grandchildren, who were truly her pride and joy.
Shari passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Rolling Meadows Senior Living in Carroll, Iowa at the age of 75 years, seven months and 21 days. She was preceded in death by her parents; stepdad, Don Johnson; grandson, Dylan Dean; brother-in-law, Bruce Ramm; and other extended family members.
Shari is survived by her husband of over 57 years, Roger Bailey of Denison; sons: Todd (Ann) Bailey Clear Lake and Chad (Tina) Bailey of Denison; grandchildren: Brandon Bailey, Tyler Bailey, Abby (Dillion) Eck, Madison (Jordan) Schiltz and Tucker Bailey; great-grandchildren: Wyatt Eck, Miles Eck, Huxley Eck, Sophia Eck and River Schiltz; a great-grandson on the way; siblings: Lynda (Tom) Billars, Gwen (Denny) Johanson, David (Jeanie) Henrichs and Deb Ramm; siblings-in-law: Randy (Judy) Bailey, Colleen (Craig) Schroeder and Donnie (Vicky) Bailey; and many other relatives and friends.
Visitation with family and friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the Huebner Funeral Home in Denison. Her funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. Interment will follow in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Denison. The family will direct memorials.
Huebner Funeral Home Denison
Zion Lutheran Church
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