Bailey Family Honors Loved Ones in Heartfelt Celebration of Life After Tragic Helicopter Crash

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FLORA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Bailey family bade a heart-wrenching farewell to Zachary, Kelsey, Vada Rose, and Samuel Bailey on Sunday, following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed their lives in Montana. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues its investigation, though no updates have been provided. In the meantime, the town of Flora became a haven of support as family and friends gathered to cherish the memories of their loved ones.

The incident has cast a shadow over the campaign trail for Illinois’ governor, with the Bailey family closely connected to a gubernatorial candidate. Typically, the period following the filing of candidacy papers is filled with enthusiasm and anticipation. However, this year, a somber mood prevails as the community comes to terms with this profound loss.

“I cannot even imagine what they’re going through or what they’re going to continue to go through for the rest of their lives,” expressed Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie. His words reflect the shared grief and empathy felt across the state as everyone rallies around the Bailey family during this difficult time.

“I cannot even imagine what they’re going through or what they’re going to continue to go through over that the rest of their life,” Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie said.

Earlier this month, Darren Bailey’s son Zachary, Zachary’s wife Kelsey, and their two children were killed in a helicopter crash in Montana.

“This is a time for mourning for the big loss that not only the Bailey family has suffered, but all of our volunteers, our campaign and supporters, and pretty much everybody in Illinois,” Aaron Del Marr, the GOP running mate of candidate Darren Bailey, said.

On Monday the Bailey family focused on celebrating the lives of those they lost: Zachary, Kelsey, Vada Rose and Samuel.

“This hurts. I mean, this just hurts. And I am I am so, so sorry. And it’s okay for it to hurt,” Pastor Dusty Elmore of Journey Christian Church said.

Monday’s services were carried by the strong faith that the Bailey family shared. That faith is what drove Zachary to earn his pilot’s license. His family’s pastor, Tyler Sterchi, said Zach took to the skies to deliver aid to those in need.

“I think that if the Bailey’s wanted everyone in this room, and those even watching on the screen to know something, I think it would be this life is meant to be lived. With purpose and it is meant to be lived with passion,” Sterchi said.

The NTSB hasn’t shared any new information on what might have caused the crash that killed the Bailey family.

Questions also remain as to the future of the Bailey campaign. Bailey’s running mate Aaron Del Mar said any final decisions would come after services were held. But some of Bailey’s powerful political allies, including the president, are calling on him to continue.

“Not only were the condolences, but there were really strong words of support for running. And I think the president really has pushed, Darren, to continue on his fight for Illinois. He thinks that Darren is the candidate to really make a change,” said Del Mar.