Steven Matt Bailey

Steve Bailey, “The Mayor of Wine,” 65, of Sedona, Arizona passed away with the unconditional love of immediate family by his side, on Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023. 

He was born in Richmond, Indiana on March 17th, 1958 to Mary Ann Resh and the late Willis Bailey. Being of Irish descent, he was so enthusiastic of that St. Patty’s Birthday. In 1971, Mary Ann married James “Jim” Carp, who was proud to raise Steve as his own. That same year, the family settled in Florida where Steve attended North Ft. Myers High School. It was during his time here that he found a love and passion for the Drum and Bugle Corps. Steve graduated high school in 1976 and went into the Army. He proudly served four years as an Army Air Traffic Controller. In the early 80’s, Steve settled in Arizona where his first son, Jonathan Bailey was born. In the early 90’s, Steve met his wife Michelle “Shelly” who had two children,  Raymond and Rachelle. He loved and cared for them as his own. In 1995, Steve and Shelly welcomed their first daughter together, Karli. Steve was over the moon. In 1997, their family became complete as they welcomed their youngest daughter Emily into the world. Steve worked relentlessly to support and provide for his wife and their five children. 

One of Steve’s greatest loves was wine. He had a passion for all aspects of this industry. In 2006, he moved his family to Sedona. Here he pursued his passion for wine, as well as, the food and beverage industry. His love and knowledge for wine grew and his career began to thrive. Steve was a well known and highly regarded Sommelier. He worked hard and accomplished a myriad of honors and awards throughout his career. He was always so proud to talk about these achievements. From the small town community talk of being PJ’s Village Pub Chili Cook Off Winner, three years in a row, to the prestigious awards and membership with the Chaine des Rotisseurs, the oldest and largest food and wine society in the world. He had decades of knowledge, recognition, honors, and awards in the food and beverage industry that he was incredibly proud of. 

Other things Steve loved to do in his free time included traveling with his family and friends. He loved to cook and create in the kitchen. He was passionate about hosting events within his community. His love for music was unmatched. He enjoyed watching Drum Corps performances. He loved rooting on his favorite sports teams. He found beauty in everything outdoors, especially fly fishing. No matter where Steve was or what he was doing, family and friends were always his top priority. He was so happy and enjoyed spending time with those he cared about the most. His selflessness and loving nature were only some of his greatest qualities. 

Take comfort knowing that Steve’s hard fought battle with cancer is over and he became free of pain as he entered the gates of heaven. Words can never express how deeply he will be missed. Steve is survived by his mother, Mary Ann Carp; his wife, Michelle Bailey; sisters, Sharon Cross  and Buffie Johnson; son, Jonathan Bailey; daughters, Rachelle Smouse, Karli Bailey, and Emily Bailey. He also leaves behind amazing grandchildren and so many other loved ones. He is preceded in death by his father, Jim Carp and son, Raymond Smouse. 

A Celebration of Life will be held for Steve Bailey at the Church of the Nazarene located at 55 Rojo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86351 which will be open to the public. This will consist of 2 days to ensure there is enough time and space for everyone to come say farewell. Sunday August 20th, 2023 from 5pm-7pm we will offer a walk through service where we invite you to come remember Steve and share your condolences with the immediate family. The following day Monday August 21st, 2023 a Memorial Service will be held from 11am-12pm. We ask that you wear your favorite Hawaiian or tie dye shirt, in true Steve Bailey fashion, to celebrate his life. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Steven Matt Bailey, please visit our floral store.