Kenneth E. Bailey Sr.

Kenneth Elvin Bailey Sr. (November 12, 1946 – February 10, 2018) was an American politician. He served as a Democratic member of the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Early life and military service
Bailey was born in Eutawville, South Carolina, to Peter and Annie Ruth Bailey. He was the fourth of nine children.

Bailey attended Morris College and South Carolina State College. After receiving his M.Ed. from South Carolina State College, Bailey 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 Vietnam during the 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.

Bailey served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1985 to 1991. He lost his seat 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 State Senate, Brad Hutto, would serve as his lead defense attorney.

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