Elizabeth (Liz) Bailey McGruder

March 30, 1924- February 6, 2019

Mrs. Elizabeth B. McGruder passed away peacefully on February 6, 2019. She was born on March 30, 1924 to Rev. Jonas Elijah Bailey and Estelle Vinson Bailey in Winston-Salem NC. She was the eldest of nine children. Elizabeth graduated from Atkins High School and Winston Salem Teachers College, now Winston Salem State University.  She taught school in Reidsville NC, where she resided for many years. She moved to NYC in the late 50's where she continued her education and earned her Master's degree in education and speech. Elizabeth surrendered her life to God at a very early age. She was honored with the Outstanding Christian Service Award for the "Youthful Pursuit of Excellence" from the Hempstead Village in Long Island, NY and for Outstanding Community Service.

She was also a member of the "National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Club" where she worked diligently. After her retirement she volunteered working in homeless shelters and soup kitchens until her health failed. Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Isaac McGruder, three sisters, and two brothers, sister in laws Doris McGruder and Deanna McGruder. Elizabeth is survived by her son, Robert J. McGruder Daughter in law Rachele Orsini, sisters Christine Bailey Geter, and Velmar Bailey Faison, Brother in laws Neil and Jack McGruder and a host of nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at 6:30pm on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home, 6919 Providence Road, Riverview, FL 33578 with the family receiving friends one hour prior from 5:30-6:30pm.  A Homecoming Service will also be taking place at 12:00pm on Friday, February 15, 2019 at Carl C. Burnett Funeral Home, 456 S. Franklin Street, Hempstead, NY 11550 with burial to follow at Pinelawn Cemetery.