Bailey 'Honored And Surprised' By Citizen Of The Year Award

In an email conversation with Lynnfield Patch this week, Reverend Dennis Bailey said that he was "very honored and surprised" to be named the Lynnfield Rotary's Citizen of the Year.

Many of Bailey's parishioners at Centre Congregational Church were on hand to see him receive the award at Teresa's in Middleton. Also on hand were Lynnfield Fire Chief Joe Lingel and Deputy Chief Glenn Davis, as well as Katherine Bailey, widow of Ace Bailey, a former Lynnfielder and NHL player who was killed in the 9/11 attacks.

Last year's Rotary Citizen of the Year, Lorraine Sacco, was  also in attendance with her husband Gene. They organize Reid's Ride, in memory of their son, Reid Sacco, and just . "I am honored to be in their company," said Bailey.

Reverend Bailey is active in numerous ways in Lynnfield, but his leadership of the town's 9/11 memorial activities last year were what he was particularly recognized for this week. Katherine Bailey was the keynote speaker at the memorial, and her niece made an appearance to . Bailey also noted that the Lynnfield Rotary was the first to offer financial and other support to the 9/11 event

"I am fortunate to serve as Pastor of Centre Congregational Church, United Church of Christ," wrote Reverend Bailey in his email on Friday. "I couldn't do what I do without their support and encouragement.  They are a great congregation of people who serve God and the community."

"I appreciate the Rotary Club of Lynnfield for bestowing this honor on me, and now proud to be a member, also," wrote Reverend Bailey.