Rachel Governor Lindsey
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
Rachel Governor Lindsey, lovingly known to her family as “Granny,” went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the age of 89. She resided in Amherst, Virginia, with her only child, April Joy Governor Bailey, and son-in-law, William (Bill) Edwin Bailey.
Born Rachel Alma Smith on April 16, 1937, in Nelson County, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Roy and Dollie Smith.
Rachel loved the Lord with all her heart, building her life upon His Word and trusting in His promises. Her Bible was a constant companion, and prayer was an everyday expression of her love for others. A devoted prayer warrior, she faithfully brought her family's needs and those of countless others before the Lord.
Her home church was Elon Baptist Church in Virginia. Throughout her life, she found joy in worship, singing in the choir, and teaching Bible lessons. She shared her faith through both her words and the quiet, daily ways she cared for those around her. Her favorite hymn, “I’ll Fly Away,” now offers a comforting reminder of the eternal home she looked forward to.
A lifelong homemaker, Granny expressed her love through hospitality and cooking. Her green beans with potatoes and beef stew were family favorites. Vacations to the beach and camping at Izaak Walton Lake Park brought treasured time together, and her affection for animals extended to the many beloved dogs she cared for over the years.
Rachel married Richard Lewis Governor on June 21, 1956. He preceded her in death in 1982. She was also preceded in death by her second husband, Hunter G. Lindsey; her parents; and her brothers, Clarence Smith and Richard Smith.
She is survived by her daughter, April Joy Governor Bailey, and her husband, William (Bill) Edwin Bailey; grandsons, Josh Bailey and his wife, Susan Bailey, and Caleb Bailey; great-grandchildren, Will Bailey and his wife, Marilu Bailey, Paul Bailey and his wife, Sky Bailey, Cole Bailey, Cadence Bailey, Eisley Bailey, and Scarlett Bailey; and great-great-grandchildren, Boaz Bailey, Joaquin Bailey, and Ramah Bailey.
A funeral service celebrating Rachel’s life and faith will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Whitten Monelison Chapel officiated by Pastor Cody Bingham and Pastor Steve Tyree.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m., at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service at Amherst Cemetery.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the caregivers, Elizabeth Stuart and Rose Douglas.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be made in Rachel’s memory to My Life Matters in Roxboro, North Carolina.
Granny’s family grieves her absence while resting in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Across five generations, she leaves a legacy of faith and love—and the lasting gift of her prayers.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
