Audrey Mary Bailey – 71, Bible Hill. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Audrey Mary Bailey, who died peacefully on Monday, August 19, 2024, in the Palliative Care Unit of Victoria General Hospital, Halifax. Recently diagnosed with cancer, her friends and family remained by her side until her final moments.
Audrey is survived by her devoted husband, Blaise; son Dwayne (Durene Wentzell); daughters, Crystal (Ryan MacLellan) and Tanya (Jay Woodyer). Additionally, Audrey’s large family included her brothers, Charles (Maureen) Bowman, Clyde (Jeanette) Bowman, David Bowman, Kevin (Bernadette) Bowman, Alvin (Cathy) Bowman and Andrew Bowman. The apples of Audrey’s eye, however, were her grandchildren, Sophia and Greyson MacLellan, and her great granddaughter, Hayden Blair.
Audrey was predeceased by her sister, Gertrude Hallett (nee, Bowman), and foster parents Charles and Agnes Bowman.
Well-known throughout the community, Audrey dedicated both her professional and personal life to helping the most vulnerable population; she was a fierce advocate for those struggling with mental health issues, addictions, and homelessness. Never one to turn another away, Audrey worked tirelessly to make every individual who came to her feel valued, heard, and seen.
The majority of Audrey’s professional career was spent working with Hillcrest Manor Nursing Home, Children’s Aid (DCS), and Canadian Mental Health Association. Countless volunteer hours included the SPCA, Out of the Cold/Truro Homeless Outreach Society, and the Schizophrenic Society of Nova Scotia.
Decades of professional and volunteer accomplishments aside, Audrey most excelled at being a loyal friend and neighborhood mom. Her door was always open, with no one permitted to leave until all bellies were full. The laughs around Audrey’s kitchen table were plentiful, and her uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome was her specialty. Her bright blue eyes, extraordinary smile, and positive attitude will be forever missed. As to how such an endless amount of compassion for others came from such a small stature shall forever remain a mystery.
The amount of loved ones who rallied for Audrey during this difficult time is a testament to how she lived her life. However, special thanks go out to Alvin Bowman, Karen Bailey, Carmel Bailey, Kara Wood, Leanne Alexander, Ann Wight, the staff of the Centennial Building Palliative Care Unit, the lovely Dr. Cam of the Thoracic Team, and her ever-dedicated family doctor, Dr. Suraiya Rafiq.
Cremation has already taken place and a private graveside memorial service will be planned with family at a later date. A Celebration of Life, open to all, will be held from 5-9 p.m., Friday, August 30, 2024, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 26, 42 Brunswick Street, Truro. As Audrey was never a lover of formal events, please feel free to dress casual.
In the spirit of how Audrey lived her life, please donate your time or money to whichever charity you hold close. Or simply, just be kind.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com