Obituary of Ronald Henry Bailey
With deep sorrow and great love, we mourn the passing of Ronald (Roy) Henry Bailey of Coquitlam, who left us on July 27, 2025, at the age of 100.
Roy will be deeply missed by his children, Ian (Joanne), Rodney (Karen), and Daphne; his cherished grandchildren, Devan (Tracy), Brooke (Nick), Adrian (Irene), Stephanie (Luke), and Sabrina (Waylon); and his beloved great-grandchildren, Amelia, Meredith, and Zoe.
He was predeceased by his wife, Zoe; his sister, Thelma; and his son-in-law, Nick.
Born in Great Yarmouth, England, Roy spent his childhood on the Isle of Wight. In 1943, he joined the Royal Air Force as a tail gunner. A passionate soccer player, coach, and skilled blackjack player, Roy's vibrant spirit shone through in all he did. He married the love of his life, Zoe Rosemary Smith, and together they built a life that was filled with love and resilience. After his service in the RAF, Roy worked as a Dairy Farm Manager, but the hard work of farming in post-war Britain proved difficult. Encouraged by the promise of new opportunities, he and his young family made the bold decision to emigrate to Canada.
Over the years, Roy took on various occupations, but it was when he purchased a small farm in Mission, B.C., that he truly found his calling. Known for his bountiful strawberry crops, Roy found immense joy in working the land, especially while riding his tractor.
Roy’s legacy lives on in the strength, kindness, and laughter he instilled in his family and all who had the privilege to know him. His stories, wit, and unwavering optimism will be remembered with fondness and appreciation.
A special note of gratitude goes to Heather. Dad’s longtime caregiver. Her attentive and friendly nature made it possible for Dad to remain in the comfort of his own home well into his 99th year, a kindness for which our family will be forever grateful.
Our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Madison Care Center in Coquitlam for the loving care they extended to our father.
A memorial service, followed by a reception, will be held at Garden Hill Funeral Home, 11765 224th Street, Maple Ridge, B.C., on September 20, 2025, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command Poppy Trust Fund, at https://www.legion.ca/remembrance/donate-to-the-poppy-fund