Celebrating the Life of Deacon Leroy Bagley, Sr.

Service of Triumph Celebrating the Life of

Leroy Bagley, Sr.

March 15, 1945—November 29, 2024

Safely Home I am home in Heaven, dear ones, Oh, so happy and so bright!

There is perfect joy and beauty, In this everlasting light.

All the pain and grief is over, Every restless tossing passed: I am now at peace forever, Safely home in Heaven at last.

Did you wonder I so calmly, Trod the valley of the shade?

Oh! but Jesus' love illumined, Every dark and fearful glade.

And He came Himself to meet me, In that way so hard to tread; And with Jesus' arm to lean on, Could I have one doubt or dread?

Then you must not grieve so sorely, For I love you dearly still: Try to look beyond earth's shadows, Pray to trust our Father's Will.

There is work still waiting for you, So you must not idly stand; Do it now, while life remaineth—You shall rest in Jesus' land.

When that work is all completed, He will gently call you home; Oh, the rapture of that meeting, Oh, the joy to see you come.

DEACON LEROY BAGLEY, SR. Sunrise: March 15, 1945

Sunset: November 29, 2024

Monday, December 16, 2024 Visitation — 9am Service — 10am

First Baptist Church 712 Randolph Street, Northwest Washington, DC 20011

Reverend Donald Robinson, Interim Pastor

Service of Triumph

Order of Service Prelude Organist Processional Clergy and Family Hymn of Praise Praise Him Old Testament Scripture Psalm 100 New Testament Scripture 1 Corinthians 15:50—58 Prayer of Comfort Hymn of Comfort Wounded For Me Acknowledgements Church Clerk Hymn of Affirmation Great is Thy Faithfulness Meditation Silent Reading of the Obituary At the Cross Ministry of the Word Reverend, Dr. Frank D. Tucker, Pastor Emeritus Closing Prayer Recessional Lift Him Up

B

Celebrating His Life Deacon Leroy Bagley, Sr. eloved husband, father,

Realizing the need for God early in his life, he

grandfather, great grandfather,

joined St. Matthew Baptist Church in

brother, uncle, friend, Leroy

Kenbridge, Virginia. He was a member of First

Bagley, Sr. was born on March 15,

Baptist Church for 60 years having joined on

1945 in Kenbridge, Virginia to the late William

March 8, 1964 on his Christian Experience.

and Hazel Bagley. He was the fourth born of

Leroy was a member of the Young Adult

four sisters and one brother.

Choral Club and served on and chaired

On November 29, 2024, God embraced His beloved son for his return home to eternal rest.

Leroy attended the public schools in Kenbridge, Virginia (Lunenburg County) and upon the completion of his education, he relocated to the Washington, District of Columbia area, where he met and married the late Patricia Ann Peters on April 25, 1970. Two sons, Leroy Anthony, Jr. and Brian Shenier were born to this union.

Leroy was employed at Walker Distributing Company for four years as a salesman. He joined the Herbert Halperin Distributing

numerous committees including Men's Day, Homecoming, Revival, Church and Pastor's Anniversary and Leadership Conference, just to name a few. He was in charge of the Radio Ministry, worked with the Bus Ministry and helped to organize and coach the First Baptist basketball team. He served as the Recreational Coordinator for the Sunday

School's annual picnic for several years.

Leroy was ordained a Deacon in 1979. He was elected Treasurer of the Board of Deacons in 1982, elected 1st Vice-Chairman on January 12, 1997, Vice-Chairman on January 14, 1998 and Chairman of the Board on January 12, 2001. He trained and was a mentor for newly

Company, which later became the D.P.I. Halperin Distributing Company, in October,

ordained Deacons. He served as a member of and spiritual advisor for the Circle Ministry

1968. He worked at D.P.I. Halperin Distributing Company for 45 years as an Account

(Solomon). He was the coordinator and leader of the Wednesday night prayer service for

Executive. He received numerous plaques, certificates and awards for his outstanding

several years and was very proud that he had a part in maintaining and growing prayer service

performance skills at this company. He served

attendance through the pandemic. He sang in the Church Choir and was the Chairman of the

on the Board of Directors of the Grocery Merchandisers Retailers' Organization for four years which awarded scholarships to high school graduates attending college.

Communications and Informational Technology ministries.

He was FBC’s Elevator Project Chairman that

photographs and videos. No matter where the

oversaw the installation of the elevator in Ida Clark Hall. Leroy was an Orientation Instructor

family traveled and on every occasion when we gathered, he recorded it for us. The Lord

for new members and a First Baptist Church

has gained an angel in heaven, but we have

Hall of Fame recipient…fitting recognition for

lost "our angel" on earth. Rest in peace, dear

a tireless and faithful servant.

one. We will see you again one day.

Leroy embraced fully his promise of being a

He leaves behind a rich legacy of love, precious memories, joy and an abundance of faith to be cherished by his two sons, Leroy Anthony Bagley, Jr. and Brian Shenier Bagley; Five grandchildren, James Eric, Anthony Brandon, Bria Janneé Patrice, Taylor Nicole, and Alexandra Leigh; one great grandchild, Bryce Ethan; daughters-in-law, Sandra Bagley and Shani Bagley; 3 sisters, Ernestine Durrah, Georgianna Cameron, and Rita Shelton; one sister-in-law, Terri Peters; three brothers-inlaw, Jeffery Anderson, Roderick Peters, and Eric Cameron; two godchildren, Sherida Hicks and Sierra Wilkerson, and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, relatives, and friends.

good steward and was, therefore, generous with his time, talent and finances. He became a Tither in 1979 and tithed for years. He often stated that we are saved for service. God expects it and gratitude and love prompts it.

He realized early in his life that we are totally dependent on God for all blessings, including life itself, and that good things happen when we express gratitude to God. Leroy exhibited spiritual and Christian principles in his home, church and community. His gentle and unassuming nature endeared him to all whom his life touched.

Whenever a task was set before him he went about his work in a quiet, yet, efficient manner. He exemplified the Fruits of the Spirit...love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness and temperance in his daily living and interaction with his fellowman. He served as a source of encouragement to all who worked with him.

Leroy's endless zeal for life was conveyed in his smile, kind words, friendly manner and big heart. His love for his family and fellowman was great and his generosity and kindness touched each of us in a significant way. We have a rich history of the family through his

"I have finished now with this house of clay.

Please kindly and carefully lay it away And let me rest from this life of pain...

Don't cry,

don't you know that God knows best?

Please, no sad hearts, no hung down heads.

Don't weep for me, for I am not dead.

I have another house, you know.

Where all of God's children can go.

I don't need this house of clay.

So, tenderly, carefully lay it away.”

Together Again Garter toss picture

A reunion occurred in Heaven this week

We are confident they are also looking over us

Of the sweetest and most joyful kind

Hoping this happiness will lessen our pain

As Dad's spirit moved beyond this earth

As we contemplate the joy that they finally feel

Released from his mortal life

Now that they are together again

And what a reunion it must have been!

And though we'll miss them terribly

A joy beyond our conceiving

And will long for them with deepest grief

When Dad met Mom in heaven again

We are reminded that love is more

Ending years of dignified grieving

powerful than death

And we are certain Dad

And this knowledge gives us

is still holding Mom's hand

comfort and peace

While she cherishes each moment by his side

We can still feel their love surround us

And they're experiencing the joy of

Giving us a desire to continue on

being together again

To try our best to live our lives well

Catching up on the years they were denied

In the ways they would have done

Maker of Men coached a multitude of our first sports Making a man is not something that can be teams. He never missed a game, school play done directly. While biology sets the or performance. foundation, a person's upbringing, social interactions, and life experiences Our father talked openly with us about all the significantly shape their masculinity and how challenges, expectations and societal norms they embody the characteristics associated that men must deal with. He taught us to be with being a "man." Boys become men when accountable for our actions and decisions they are given a healthy environment to learn and allowed us to explore and develop our and mature under the guidance of someone own identities and interests. who knows what a man is He taught us to be leaders, not supposed to be. followers, and to be strong and Since that is the definition of not waver in the face of how to make a man, then there pressure from outside is no need to look any further sources. He taught us to stand than Leroy Bagley, Sr., the by our convictions and be greatest man we knew. tough enough to stand in the eye of storms that he knew We are eternally grateful to our would come our way. He father for showing us how to taught us to go out in this be men and guiding our ascent world and take what was ours into manhood. There is no better example of a man than the role model because no one was going to give us anything. we had.

You can rest easy now because we have it from here.

Our father nurtured us, guided us, and disciplined us when we needed it. He talked with us about everything that life was going to throw our way and was there for us in every way possible along our journey to manhood.

He taught us to be spiritual and God-fearing men who recognize there is a higher power that is walking with us as we travel this road called life. He prayed with us and for us knowing that a man needs every bit of armor to survive this world daily.

One of the first things we saw as children was a role model and example of a man who always demonstrated responsible behavior, had a strong work ethic, showed empathy, understanding and compassion, and always showed respect for others.

Lastly, he taught us to love ourselves and to love others as Jesus loves us.

So today, your two sons, who you made men want to say...Thank you, Dad. Job Well Done.

You can rest easy now because we have it from here.

Our father put us in the best schools that Give mom a kiss and big hug from us, and we money could buy and taught us to compete will do everything in our power to continue to and outwork anyone we competed against. carry on the Bagley legacy.

He supported us throughout all our personal With all our love, growth and social engagement activities and Tony and Brian

GrandDad

Our Grandad was a man who had smiles to brighten your days, and who always made you feel good with his warm words of praise. What’s more, he knew what to do to make all our wishes come true.

He was our grandfather.

Our grandad was someone who always had good stories to tell, but just as importantly, he knew how to be a good listener as well. He was patient and kind, and the very best friend you could ever hope to find.

He was no ordinary man.

We had a wonderful grandad, one who never really seemed to grow old.

His smile was made of sunshine and his heart was solid gold; His eyes were as bright as shining stars and his love for us was everlasting, you see. We had a wonderful grandad, and that is the way it will always be.

But take heed because he is still keeping an eye on all of us. So, to our grandad: We’ll make sure that you will like what you see.

We're proud to tell the world that Leroy Bagley Sr. was the best grandfather we could have ever hoped for.

Your grand kids, James, Anthony, Bria, Taylor, Alexandra, and Bryce

Some of my favorite memories are the Tuesdays my grandfather picked me up from school and took me to Chick-fil-A. It became our tradition, and was always the highlight of my week. He even made friends with the employees because we went so often. Sometimes I would play in the playground, but frequently, we would just sit and talk . It was often quite late when he took me home.

I never asked if he was okay eating the same thing every week—but he never said no. That speaks to the kind of GrandDad he was. These moments ,meant so much to me, I will cherish these memories for the rest of my life.

Love, Alex

BROTHER

Smile and Go On You can shed tears that I have gone, Or you can smile because I have lived.

You can close your eyes and pray that I will come back, Or you can open your eyes and see all that I have left.

Your heart may be empty because you can’t see me, Or you can be full of the love that we have shared.

You can turn your back on tomorrow because of yesterday, You can remember me and only that I have gone.

Or you can cherish my memory and let it live on,, You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back.

Or you can do what I would want, Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

Lovingly, The sisters Earnestine, Georgianna, and Rita

GUIDING LIGHT I am so proud to be your Darling Daughter in Law

He was more than a father-inlaw—he was a kind and generous soul who welcomed me with You had me at "HELLO open arms from the very DARLING". Dad, although saying beginning. Always ready to lend goodbye is never easy, know a hand, his wisdom and advice that you have always been a were gifts I came to cherish. He pillar of strength and love in our family. You have had a way of making every moment brighter, always been a wonderful father figure to me, and I whether through his hearty laughter or his ability to will never forget the lessons you've taught me. bring people together.

Your guidance and support meant the world to me, As a granddad, he was simply the best. Alex and all It was such an honor to call you 'Dad'. Thank you for his grandchildren adored him, and he poured welcoming me with open arms and for the endless love and joy into their lives. His dedication countless memories we shared. Even though you and hard-working nature were an inspiration to are not here with me now, the love we shared everyone who knew him. remains in my heart always. I'll cherish your I will miss him dearly, but I will forever carry his kindness and wisdom forever. Until we meet again, kindness, humor, and love in my heart. His legacy Take care Dad. of generosity and strength will live on in all of us.

Your 'Darling Daughter in Law' ~Shani Sandra

Uncle A poem for a wonderful Uncle, One who never really grew old.

His smile was made of sunshine And his heart was made of gold.

Loving you always Monica and Leilana

The FIRST MAN to love me, teach me, and actually SHOW me what true love really is, always one of my biggest supporters, the absolute BEST GODFATHER/Uncle anyone could possibly ask for. My love for traveling was solely because of you and all of the countless experiences you provided for your “first daughter”, ME! While I refuse to be selfish, it’s still hard. What’s understood, needs no explanation. I will love you forever, take your rest!

Sierra He quickly became a close part of our family thru the many years we have known him, sharing all of his wisdom, stories and that big ole smile he greeted everyone with. He was a very kind and generous man with a larger than life spirit, great sense of adventure and travel, an entrepreneurial spirit, full of advice, with an immense love of family (especially his grands), church and his business.

He certainly made an impact on our lives and while he is now resting in the heavens we absolutely believe he has already taken on a leadership role orchestrating amongst the angels.

Logan, Patricia, and Theresa Watts

Faithful Servant “May the work I’ve done speak for me.”

The Deacon and Deaconess Ministriesfeel great sorrow as we bid farewell to Deacon Leroy Bagley, our beloved brother.

Deacon Bagley was a beacon of light in our church, a true servant of God whose life was dedicated to spreading love and unwavering faith, touched countless lives, and his presence in First Baptist Church will be deeply missed. We are grateful for the legacy of service he leaves behind and find comfort in knowing he is now resting peacefully in the hands of the Lord. Done by the Order of the Deacon and Deaconess Ministry Deacon Bruce Roberson, Chairman Deaconess Brenda Roberson, President Deacon Orpheus Tucker, 1st Vice Chairman Deaconess Yvonne Harris, Vice President Deacon Ministry Deaconess Ministry

Church and Deacon

First Baptist Church Wednesday Night Prayer Service was saddened to hear of the transitioning of our dear Brother, Deacon Leroy Bagley. May loving memories bring peace, comfort, and strength during this grief journey.

During the Covid Pandemic, Deacon Bagley coordinated the Virtual Wednesday Night Prayer Service with Music, Testimonies, and Inspirational Speakers from members and friends of First Baptist Church. The phenomenal Prayer Service brought in over 100 Participants. A service everyone looked forward to. It was a wonderful mid-week uplifting service that will tie you over to Sunday Worship Service. It was beautiful.

Our prayers are that you will continue to celebrate his life and remember there are no goodbyes and words will never communicate your emotions or your feelings, nor will take away the tears.

God in His wisdom has chosen Deacon Bagley to return to Him. Done by the Order of the Wednesday Night Prayer Service Deacon Christopher Baysmore, Coordinator The members of the Board of Trustees of First Baptist Church, S.W. Inc wish to convey their sorrow and sympathy in the passing of Deacon Leroy Bagley, our friend, brother, and co-laborer in Christ. He was a devoted Christian leader who truly loved his family and First Baptist Church.

Deacon Bagley will be remembered as a dedicated and loyal Christian steward. In addition, his sense of humor, attention to detail, and knowledge of the word were widely respected. In Deacon Bagley, the trustee board had an ally; it was a joy to work alongside him. He was known as a mild mannered individual and a natural leader who worked well with others We have been truly blessed by his service, his contributions to First Baptist, and his presence.

Submitted by the Board of Trustees Kenneth Clarke, Chairman

Deacon Bagley was a pillar of a Faithful Godly man providing support to First Baptist Church whenever he was needed. He will be greatly missed at First Baptist Church, but he will always be remembered in many members’ hearts for the great work that he has done. For his Solomon Circle Family, we will miss him very much, but we know behind every great faithful man there is God who loves him much.

Love Your Solomon Circle Family Jacqueline Nelson (Circle Leader)

Deacon Leroy Bagley was a key contributor to the First Baptist Church communications department. For years he always made himself available and was the primary communications resource for funerals and other church events. When the choir needed to rehearse in the evenings or on the weekends, Deacon Bagley made himself available to open the church and setup the equipment. On many occasions he would reschedule his lawn business activities to support the needs of the First Baptist Church communication department. He opened the doors, set up the microphones, operated the control board and made recommendations for improving the communication experience.

When we heard of the passing of our member, friend and co-laborer in Christ, Deacon Leroy Bagley our hearts were saddened. Deacon Bagley served on various committees at First Baptist until his illness. We will surely miss his sense of humor, but we give thanks to God for allowing Deacon Bagley to touch our lives and lives of so many. Perhaps the lyrics of a familiar song best embodies our beloved brother ... "May the work I've Done Speak for me".

We thank God for Deacon Bagley’s commitment and dedication to the FBC Communication Ministry. He will forever remain in our hearts.

We, the Outreach Ministry of First Baptist Church, grieved the loss of a Faithful Servant of God, Deacon Leroy Bagley.

Deacon Bagley was a Servant of God; he exemplified the qualities of an outstanding Servant Leader. His extraordinary service to God was admired, and he led others to follow God. Deacon Leroy Bagley’s Love for God and Family was witnessed in his actions. He was devoted to God, Family, FBC, and community.

Humbly Submitted, FBC Communications Ministry

You brought joy, happiness, and kindness with your genuine personality. Your light shone so brightly that you left an indelible mark on this world that cannot be erased.

You may be gone but your memory will live on forever.

With tears in our eyes and heavy hearts we say goodbye to someone who made our lives so much better. Thank you for the joy and laughter.

You touched so many hearts in your lifetime. Your legacy is going to live on forever. Thank you for being such an important part of so many lives in this grand edifice and family called First Baptist Church.

Peace and Blessings, Minister Lisa E. Tucker, Leader and Evangelist Katherine Oglesby, Spiritual Advisor

Sister Deborah McKethan, President Altar Guild

A quote from Jan Bratton says, “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal.” Another poet expressed it this way, “When Someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.”

We are praying that God will wrap His loving arms around you, providing you with strength, love, and comfort as you navigate the days ahead. May the loving memories you share provide you with peace and joy.

Done by the order of FBC Outreach Ministry.

Cheryl Walker, Chairperson Judy Spann, Co-Chairperson Yvonne Harris, Recording Secretary

Deacon Bagley will always be remembered as a great supporter and advocate for the youth of First Baptist Church. His contributions and diligence in making sure our youth scholarship program was well funded for many years will never be forgotten. In addition, we could always count on him to be in attendance for youth programs and activities, ready and willing to help in any way needed.

Lovingly submitted, First Baptist Church, Youth Ministry Sis. Kareema Clark Robinson, Coordinator

“Deep in our heart, a memory is kept of one we loved and shall not forget.”

Pallbearers Brandon Anthony Bagley Brian Bagley James Bagley

Leroy Anthony Bagley, Jr. Petey Bagley Roderick Peters

Thanks & Acknowledgements The family of Leroy Bagley, Sr. wishes to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to all of you for your calls, cards, flowers, food, gifts, kind words, prayers and all your expressions of love and sympathy. Friends are needed in times like these. In times like these, your love and concern comforts us.

In times like these, your prayers thoughts and assistance give us consolation and strength.

Interment Immediately Following Service Fort Lincoln Cemetery 3401 Bladensburg Road Brentwood, MD

Repast The family will receive friends at First Baptist Church (Ida Clark Hall) immediately following the Interment.

Arrangements Entrusted to: Marshall–March Funeral Home 4217 9th Street, NW Washington, DC. A digital copy of this program book is available at www.leroybagley.com, where you are also welcome to share your memories, condolences, pictures, tributes, and reflections.