Donald E. Bailey, Jr.

75, of Naples, FL, formerly of Smithfield, RI passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 4, 2020 surrounded by family.  Don is survived by his wife, Marie Ann (Wilkicki) Bailey, of 56 years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Donald Sr. and Yvonne (Gervais) Bailey. Don graduated from Cranston High School and received a degree in Accounting from Bryant College.  He was an accountant, founder of Bailey and Company, Inc. in Smithfield and member of the Rhode Island Associated of Public Accountants for over 40 years until his retirement. 

Besides his wife he is survived by his loving children: Donald E. Bailey, III of Cranston, Melissa M. Bailey and her husband Raymond J. Danis, of Greenville, Steven M. Bailey, CPA and his wife Lisa, of Smithfield and Andrew J. Bailey, Esq. and his wife Christine, of NH. He was also the brother of Robert Bailey of Cranston, Rita Piette of Coventry, Gene Bailey of West Warwick and cherished grandfather of 6.  Don was also the brother of the late John Bailey and Richard Bailey.  

In 1963 Don married the love of his life, Marie.  They lived together almost inseparable for over 56 years first residing in Cranston and then Smithfield where they raised their 4 children.  

He was the former Cubmaster of Pack 3 Greenville and involved in Boy Scout Troops 1 and 3 Greenville where he guided all 3 of his sons to the rank of Eagle Scout.  An avid boater, he enjoyed many years navigating Narragansett Bay and Block Island captaining the vessel Bay Breeze. Don was also an active member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. He was a hockey fan and held season tickets to the Providence Bruins for many years. In his retirement Don lived in Naples Florida where he enjoyed the beautiful climate, the company of friends and a cold refreshing beverage. 

Don was a loving grandfather to Abigail, Anderson, Emma, Wesley, Cora and Olivia.  Don enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren spend time together and truly enjoyed the family’s annual trip to Molasses Pond in Maine.

Don was a strong, proud and good man who always thought about others before himself.  He taught his children to stand up for what they believe in, no matter the cost or what others would say.  He was the personification of the expression, “do the right thing.” Don always looked out for his family. For example, he would yell at passing cars at the family home in Smithfield to “slow down” when they would be driving too quickly through the neighborhood.  His advice today would be telling us all to “slow down” and enjoy the time we have with family and friends. We shouldn’t be racing through life, worrying about things that have happened in the past or anxious about events to come. Don would tell us all to enjoy the present and the time spent together.

Don was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend to all.  He was a great father who always took care of his children, teaching and guiding them.  He treasured his family and embraced every moment with them. Don will be forever remembered for his beautiful smile, gentle blue eyes, caring heart, loving embrace and unconditional love.  Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate his life and find comfort that he is in heaven watching over us.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial on Friday at 11:00am in St. Philip’s Church, Greenville.  Burial will be private . VISITING HOURS: Thursday 4-7 pm in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Ave., Cranston. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to:  St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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