Mary Bailey Romine

Mary Bailey Romine, age 79, died Thursday, April 17, 2009 in Tulsa.  She was born December 15, 1929 in Dewar Oklahoma to Charles and Barbara Bailey.  When she was two months of age Mary and her family moved to Okmulgee where she lived most of her life.  She was a graduate of Okmulgee High School, received an Associates of Arts degree from William Woods College for Women, a Bachelor of Arts degree from East Central State College, and a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law were she was one of three women in her graduating class.  Mary had a long distinguished career practicing law in Okmulgee for 43 years, many of which were in practice with her deceased brother K.D. Bailey.  In a male dominated profession she took pride in her achievements.  She went on to become the first female County/Associate District Judge in Okmulgee County and the first female Okmulgee City Attorney.  She made strong contributions to her community by serving on several corporate boards including Citizen's Bank and the McFarland Companies.  Her many civic activities included service as a director of the University of Oklahoma Association, Associate Editor of the Oklahoma Bar Journal, director of the Creek Nation Association for Children with Learning Disabilities, director of the Creek Indian Memorial Association and board member of the Okmulgee Humane Society.  But Mary's greatest love and dedication were to her family and friends who will miss her greatly.  She is survived by her brother Dick Bailey and his wife Mary Lou, her sons Chris and Jeff Romine, daughter in law Jane Romine, her two grandchildren Andrew and Megan Romine as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.  A memorial service will be held 2:00 Tuesday at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Okmulgee.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Okmulgee Education Foundation.  Arrangements are under the direction of the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee.  918.756.1677 Online condolences may be sent at www.mcclendon-winters.com