Kenneth E. Bailey Sr.

Kenneth Elvin Bailey Sr. (November 12, 1946 – February 10, 2018) was an American politician. A member of the Democratic Party, he served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1985 to 1991.

Early life and military service Bailey was born in Eutawville, South Carolina, the son of Peter Bailey and Annie Ruth. He was the fourth of nine children. earning his M.Ed. degree. He completed the requirements for a Doctor of Divinity while attending Carolina Theological Bible Institute, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Shaw University Divinity School.

Baily served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970. He served in the armed forces during the Korean War, and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant.

Career After his military service, Bailey taught at Williams Memorial High School in St. George, South Carolina. During this time he joined the Eutawville Branch of the NAACP, gaining an introduction to political organizing. In 1975, he was elected the Vice Chairman of the Holly Hill School District Board, and in 1980, he was elected the South Eutawville Precinct President. He became the State Democratic Party Executive Committeeman in 1984. He lost his seat in the House, in 1991, as a result of Operation Lost Trust, after pleading guilty to accepting a $500 cash bribe and conspiracy. At the time, future Minority Leader of the Senate, Brad Hutto, would serve as his lead defense attorney.

Death Bailey died on February 10, 2018 in Holly Hill, South Carolina, at the age of 71. He is buried in Eutawville, South Carolina.