It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Raymond Joseph  (Joe) Bailey on January 27th, 2026 at the Victoria General Hospital. Joe was born December 19, 1957, in New Waterford, Nova Scotia.

Joe dedicated much of his working life to the coal mines of Cape Breton, proudly serving for 24 years as a coal miner at Lingan Mine, Phalen Mine, and Prince Mine, where he earned the nicknames Beatle Bailey and Hound Dog. Following the closure of the mines, Joe worked a variety of jobs before beginning his final careers as a Millwright with Nova Scotia Power and as a bus driver with Transit Cape Breton. He had a special love for driving the handi-trans bus, where his kindness and patience made a lasting impact on many. Joe retired in 2022 to spend more time with the love of his life and soulmate, his wife Annie.

Joe was passionate about hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family—especially his beloved grandchildren. One of his greatest joys was training and trialing his beagles, a pursuit in which he earned many awards and made lifelong friendships.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Annie Bailey; his daughter, Crystal (Chris) Campbell, whom he referred to as his little pet Chihuahua; his son, Ryan Bailey; and Melissa Deruelle, whom he loved as his own daughter. He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Keegan, Emma, Julie, Zoey, Ella, Cian, and Eleanor.

He is also survived by his siblings; sisters, Karen (Allen), Kimberly (Morgan), Darlene, and Hughena; and his brother, Gabe. Joe will be lovingly remembered by his father-in-law, Mick Hogan; sister-in-law, Laura (Matt); brother-in-law, Mickey (Theresa); as well as several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. He will be deeply missed by his special friend, Earl Mercer, as well as his life-long friend, Stanley Roach.

Joe was predeceased by his parents, Theresa and Jack Bailey; his sisters, Jean (Melvin) and Starlette; and his mother-in-law, Marie Hogan.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital and the Victoria General Hospital for the compassionate care and support they provided.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford on Friday, February 6 from 5-8 p.m. and again on Saturday, February 7 from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Father Jim Oliver officiating. A reception will be held in the funeral home immediately following the service. Donations in Joe’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. 

Joe’s strength, warmth, and devotion to his family and friends will be remembered always.