Eddie and his family lived in many states before settling in Florida as their home. Eddie grew up competing in cutting horse shows and junior rodeos, following his parents in the horse training profession.
He was a member of the Oxford Baptist Church in Oxford, Fla. He was graduated from high school in Wildwood, Fla., and went on to further his education on a full rodeo scholarship at Sul Ross University in Alpine, Texas, majoring in agriculture marketing.
While living in Florida after college, his businesses included a Purina dealership and livestock transportation.
He found his way to Meeker, Colo., during his truck driving career and met his soon to be wife, Gayla Carstens. Eddie and Gayla were married on Dec. 29, 2008.
Eddie pursued several jobs in Meeker. He worked for MSG, Jensen Construction and High Country Portables as a truck driver. He also worked at Sleepy Cat and Gary’s Steak House, but the job he truly loved the most was teaching. He loved every minute with his students.
He started at CNCC in Rangely teaching horsemanship and equine classes as well as being a substitute teacher at the three school levels in Meeker. After running the mail for Clinton and Terra Schults for a few years, he finally took over the Meeker mail route himself.
Eddie had numerous hobbies including golf, team roping and, of course, his famous beautiful halters, which he made and sold throughout the United States. He also loved playing Legos with the grandkids.
Eddie is survived by: his wife Gayla Langford; his mother, Joyce Bailey,; his stepfather, CW Mann Bailey; his sister, Terry Irwin; his brother, Tom Bailey; a nephew, Coy Irwin; great niece, Emma Irwin, and a great nephew, Hunter Irwin.
He also is survived by: his new family, Joe and Evalyn Cartsens, Heather and Todd Weilend, brother-in-law and sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, and grandkids.
