OMAHA, NEBRASKA — The Omaha community is grieving the loss of Bailey JoAnn Mathis, a 28-year-old whose bright smile and generous heart left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Bailey passed away unexpectedly on September 17, 2025, leaving family, friends, and colleagues with cherished memories of her kindness and energy.
Born on April 29, 1997, in West Point, Nebraska, Bailey was the daughter of Brenda Mathis. She graduated from Wisner-Pilger High School in 2015, where she stood out on the cheer and dance teams, participated in sports, and built friendships that endured well beyond her school years.
Drawn to a life of service, Bailey studied at the University of Nebraska at Omaha before becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. She cared for patients at Methodist Hospital and later fulfilled her dream of working in the Hematology and Oncology Departments at Children’s Hospital. Known for her compassion and warmth, she brought comfort to young patients and their families during some of their most difficult moments.
Friends describe Bailey as someone who could “make anyone feel loved and seen,” recalling her contagious laugh, affectionate hugs, and ability to light up every room she entered. Outside of work, she enjoyed karaoke, concerts, Husker football games, golf, dancing, and celebrating her love for Dolly Parton. Her beloved dog, Poppy, was always by her side.
Bailey is survived by her mother, Brenda Mathis; sisters Hayden and Jocelyn; brothers Jonathan, Jordan, and Jace; grandparents Patty and Allen Hanson and Doug Chudomelka; along with extended family, colleagues, and countless friends who adored her.
Funeral services will take place in Blair, Nebraska, followed by burial at Blair Cemetery. The family will release full details in the coming days.
To honor Bailey’s memory and help her family with funeral and memorial expenses, donations are being accepted through:
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GoFundMe: (https://gofund.me/ca3647b57)
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CashApp: $BrendaMathis75
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Venmo: @BrendaMathis
“All donations will directly support Bailey’s service,” the family shared. “Anything beyond what is needed will go toward supporting her loved ones as they navigate this difficult time.”
Though her life was far too short, Bailey’s legacy is one of laughter, generosity, and love. Her family and friends hope others will carry forward her spirit by living with the same joy and openness she embodied every day.
Forever remembered, forever cherished.
