Cheryl Ann Bailey

Cheryl Manix Bailey passed away peacefully at home on November 30, 2025, in Harlingen, Texas, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous 20-month battle with brain cancer (glioblastoma). Cheryl lived life to the fullest, and she will be greatly missed.

Cheryl was born to Daniel and Glenda Manix on July 2, 1954. She is survived by her husband, Ray Bailey; her son, Michael (Samantha) Bailey, her brother Dennis Manix, her sister, Marsha Manix Gramley; her stepson, John (Heather) Bailey. She was cherished aunt of Kelly (David) Knight, Jacob (Sara) Howell, and Debora (Romeo) Manix.

She was deeply devoted to her family, her faith, and her many friends. Her remarkable spirit was shaped by a life rich in experiences and devoted service to others. She would never say no to a charitable cause or her community. Whether it was her nearly two decades of service as a board member of the Harlingen Community Development Corporation, or lifelong membership in the sorority Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA) of which she was recognized as outstanding member of the year, or her volunteer work with Rio Hondo Baptist Church, Easter Seals, the Zonta Club, the Elks Lodge, the March of Dimes, or Harlingen American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, and too many more to name, Cheryl could always be found helping others with a smile on her face and an infectious attitude that made the world around her a little better every day.

Cheryl also harbored a deep passion for gardening. Spending many an hour cultivating her yard, herb garden, and flower beds. These were not just spaces of blooming flowers and thriving plants, but a reflection of the care, dedication, and love that she invested into nurturing life.

Cheryl was known for being a fine cook. She delighted in preparing delicious food to share with her family and friends. Teaching herself to cook via her vast cookbook collection, Cheryl took great care in making sure to always use the freshest ingredients frequenting various stores and local farmer's markets. Whether it a family dinner, a dinner party with friends, cookies or cakes for a fundraiser, or a holiday feast, Cheryl could be counted on to cook something wonderful and delightful because it was always prepared not only with her vast skill, but also with boundless love. It was always a treat to sit at Cheryl’s table.

And then there was the one night a month, every month, for 36 years. Cheryl’s release, with her friends, her sisters, the Bunco Babes. The dice would roll, many a story told, and perhaps even a little alcohol would flow. This tight knit, supportive, and joyous group was truly Cheryl’s second family, and such a blessing to both Cheryl and Ray throughout her battle.

Everybody who was a part of Cheryl's life, be it family, friends or even strangers, were made a better person by her.

A memorial service will be held on December 27, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home in San Benito. A celebration of Cheryl’s life will be held after the conclusion of the service.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Cheryl’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.