Hank Williams "Bill" Bailey Obituary (1956 - 2020)

Princeton – Hank Williams “Bill” Bailey, 64, was surrounded by his family when he passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at his home. Bill was born in Hartford, CT on March 17, 1956 to Donald and Patricia (Norman) Bailey. Princeton was always his home, it is where he married the love of his life, Donna L. Melanson on June 12, 1976 and raised his beloved daughter, Billie Jo. After graduating from Woodland High School with the class of 1974, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. Following his service, he returned home and married Donna on June 12, 1976. Bill worked some in the woods “cutting pulp” but soon after began his 30-year career as a Boiler Operator at the Woodland mill where he made and kept many friends over the years. Bill loved life, he accepted things for what they were and knew how to appreciate the good. He enjoyed sports, particularly the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics; he was a hunter and was at peace when he was riding the trails or the back roads listening to classic rock. He was a classic rock fan before it was classic and enjoyed going to concerts. Above all Bill was a family man, he lived for his family and was happiest when they were near. In addition to his father, Bill was predeceased in death by his wife of 40 years, Donna L. Bailey; his auntie and uncle, Christine & David Arnold; a nephew, Ray Matthew Sockabasin; and a brother-in-law Paul Cox. He is survived by his mother, Patricia A. Bailey; daughter, Billie Jo Bailey and her fiancé, Julian Little of Sanford; his grandson, Julian Little; sisters, Christie Cox of VA and Jeanne Graceffa and her husband Bill of Grand Lake Stream; brother, James Bailey of OK, Richard Bailey and his companion Debra Huckabay of Baileyville and Robert Bailey and his wife Regina of FL; sisters-in-law, Sandy Melanson and her husband Ray Sockabasin of Peter Dana Point and Dena Melanson of Milbridge; brother-in-law, Alan Melanson and his wife Donna of Princeton; his canine companion Hershey and many nieces, nephews and friends. Bill planned his own celebration of life before his passing. He arranged for his family and friends to visit throughout the day on Saturday, August 22nd. His family hosted the celebration at Bill’s home and he thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated all who attended. A private burial will take place at Princeton Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements by Mays Funeral Home, Calais & Eastport.