James Clifton "Jimmy" Bailey
In the presence of his loving family, James Clifton (Jimmy) Bailey, 92, passed peacefully away at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Palliative Care Unit following a brief illness, on Saturday, March 30, 2019.
Born in Sydney Mines in October 1926, he moved to Glace Bay with his parents at a tender age when his father began work in the coal mines.
As was the trend of those early times, James went to work at the age of 14 as a plumber’s helper and so his working career began. Only two years later, he found work in the mines himself, a career path that carved out his life for the next 42 years. In the early days of his career, “Pit Ponies” were used and Jimmy often told stories of his favorite pony “Fraser.” Jimmy Bailey was possessed with a solid work ethic and seldom missed a shift, even working overtime when the opportunity was available. He was totally devoted to his young family and loving wife, Bruna, whom he married in 1946, and they were blessed with 72 and a half years of sincere love and dedication to each other.
They were also blessed with three loving children, sons, David and Clifton, and his precious daughter, Linda, all of whom inherited the work ethic of their father and all of whom have enjoyed successful careers themselves in technology, business and education. All three children have enjoyed long, healthy marriages, and were also blessed with children, the grandchildren of Jimmy, all of whom he poured out the love of family so important in his life, and who loved their grandfather with a passion and devotion found only through the strength of family values.
Jimmy and Bruna travelled when they could during his working years, taking their young family to many parts of Canada and the United States on short, summer vacations. With Linda’s relocation to Newfoundland, where she was a teacher, they travelled extensively to that province, visiting with her and her young family, exploring the sites of the province, and making many friends there as well.
James Bailey lived a full and enriched life, blessed with a happy, loyal and loving marriage, successful family, and will ever be remembered as the patriarch of the Bailey family. He was a loving, devoted and highly respected husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He enjoyed all facets of life and lived life to the fullest.
In his retirement, he enjoyed walking, chatting with his friends, and especially visiting with his sons; David, who worked at the Savoy, and Clifton, who had his own automotive repair business in Dominion. He loved to drive and was really proud of his 1995 Buick Park Avenue Limited, which he drove every day he could when visiting his sons. He was very proud of his children and had no problem showing it.
He was also blessed with a great wit and sense of humor, and never missed an opportunity to engage in chatter that brought smiles and laughter to the faces of all he encountered. He seldom ate out, preferring to dine at home because “no one cooks like Bruna.” Hence, the traditional Sunday dinner, complete with wine and all the trimmings and all family members who could make it, was a feature of their home throughout the year.
His sharp wit was punctuated by his keen intelligence, and he was a “fountain of knowledge,” especially on history, which he read everything he could find, watched countless documentaries on the history channel, and even researched topics to no end. He was amazing with his memory of historical facts, especially of World War II, and current affairs in Canada.
James is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Bruna (Baretta) Bailey; sons, David (CarolAnn), Clifton, (Christina, deceased) and daughter, Linda (George) Saunders. A total of nine grandchildren, Derek, Shane and Jamie Bailey; Jason, Trevor and Jennifer (Bailey) MacMullen; and Colin, Mark and Gina (Saunders) Neville. He also leaves behind a total of 10 great-grandchildren and four step great-grandchildren.
Also survived by brothers, George and Vivert; sisters, Gilbertha and Sylvia, and sister-in-law, Rose.
Predeceased by daughter in law, Christina; brothers-in-law, Lui Baretta and Pasquale Marangoni, and sister-in-law, Tina Marangoni; also predeceased by brothers, Guy and Cecil and sisters, Jeanette and Charlene.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Interment at a later date.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, April 4, 2019, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a memorial service and Celebration of Life commencing at 3 p.m. all taking place at T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay, NS (902-849-4199).
The Bailey family extends their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the professional and medical staff of the ICU Unit and the Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, and to the wonderful volunteers of the Palliative Care Unit whose dedication and services are second to none anywhere.
Very special appreciation is expressed to his granddaughter, Jennifer, who was by his side throughout his final days and illness. Her dedication to and love for her “Papa” will forever be remembered by the Bailey family.
Flowers gratefully accepted, or donations may be made to the Palliative Care Unit of Cape Breton Regional Hospital.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists.
Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.tjtracey.com.
