Bailey, Vera Ilene

With profound sadness and love, we announce the passing of Vera Bailey, who left this world peacefully on July 22, 2025, at the age of 93, surrounded by her family and so much love.

 

Vera was born on March 9, 1932, on Manitoulin Island to Norman and Inez (Dinsmore) Kelly and grew up in Meldrum Bay. She was the heart of our family and a true pillar of strength, living life on her own terms.

 

Vera was a force – stubborn, kind, outspoken, opinionated, and full of love for everyone she encountered. She had a deep love for people and was always willing to lend a hand and help others at every opportunity.

 

Strong in her faith, Vera was devoted to her church, her friends, and especially her family. On July 20, 1949, she married the love of her life, Leonard Bailey (predeceased), in the Meldrum Bay United Church. Together, they shared over 70 years of love and partnership – a bond built on deep respect and enduring love. Vera and Leonard are now reunited in heaven.

 

She will be deeply missed by her three children: Michael Bailey (Debbie), Karen Pow (Bill), and Mark Bailey (Susan); her eight grandchildren: Adam (Vicki), Julie, Melissa (Jeff), Scott (Ashlea), Tanya (Andrew), Mat (Jen), Alana, and Dayna (Dan); and her twelve great-grandchildren. Vera was also a loving aunt and friend, and she was predeceased by her brother Calvin (Mildred) and her sister Norma.

 

Vera was a long-time member of Meldrum Bay United Church, the United Church Women (UCW), Fifty United Church, and the Order of the Eastern Star. She spent her life caring for others and raising her family, and in later years worked at Robinson’s Department Store.

 

We’ve shared countless memories with Vera over the years – trips to Meldrum Bay, noisy family gatherings, her famously terrible driving, hours spent baking in her kitchen, and summer trips to Sauble Beach. Whether watching Wheel of Fortune, knitting, quilting, sewing, dancing, sharing stories and long chats, singing in the car, or going to McDonald’s after church, Vera made every moment special just by being herself.

 

Her love, strength, and spirit made us who we are. Though she may be gone, we will carry her with us – in our choices, our traditions, and in the stories we’ll keep telling.

 

A special thank you to Deer Park Villa and suites in Grimsby for the love, support, and care you gave Vera over the past six years. She formed many special bonds and meaningful relationships with the wonderful people who work there, and our family is deeply grateful for the kindness and compassion you showed her.

 

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held on September 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Fifty United Church, 1455 Highway 8, Stoney Creek. Vera will be laid to rest at a later date in Meldrum Bay, Manitoulin Island.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fifty United Church in Winona or Meldrum Bay United Church on Manitoulin Island.

 

Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755.