Peter A. Bailey

Chief Warrant Officer Peter A. Bailey, CD 2 (Ret’d)

It is with great sadness and broken hearts that the family announce the passing of Peter Albert Bailey on June 29, 2026, at Valley Hospice, Kentville, Nova Scotia, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease.

Born in Lequille, Annapolis Co. On January 5, 1950, he was the son of the late Alberta (Lawrence) Bailey, raised by his father, the late Joseph Bailey and the late Mary (Owen) Bailey.

Peter was an electrician by trade; he began a career in that field which would last 35 years at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. He served as President and VP of the Union (Operating Engineers and CUPE); and as a member of the Equity Committee for the University. He sat on the Pension Board and was always willing to help co-workers when asked for advice.

Peter was so proud to serve his country; his career with the Canadian Armed Forces began with his enrolment in the West Nova Scotia Regiment in 1965. He would remain a West Nova for 33 years of his 37 years of service. By 1971, he had risen to the rank of Sergeant; it was during that summer that he was selected along with two other West Nova's; Dave Gibson and Willie Salsman, to participate in Exercise Reforger 111. The three-month exercise took place in Germany, and this full-time callout presented an outstanding opportunity for these reservists to develop infantry-specific and leadership skills. During the following decades of service, he rose steadily in rank. Peter volunteered to participate in a "jackstay transfer" between HMCS Preserver and HMCS Protector; he used to laugh that this was an experience which helped him decide to remain always as part of the land forces. He was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer and appointed as Regimental Sergeant Major of the West Novas, an appointment that would last nine years, after which he was appointed as Brigade Sergeant Major of 36 Canadian Brigade Group in Halifax for his final three years of his service in the Canadian Army Reserve. As of now, he is the only West Nova to have held this prestigious position. In this post, he was the most senior non-commissioned member in the brigade and would be responsible for the oversight of dress, deportment, and discipline for all Reserve Units within the brigade, which covered the provinces of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

During his time in uniform Peter was awarded The Canadian Forces Decoration (CD) with two clasps, the Canadian 125 Metal, and the Queen's Golden Jubilee. He was also awarded a Certificate of Recognition for Civilian and Military Service from Sodexho at Acadia University.

His interests saw him active in a number of local organizations, where he often held a position. He also served as Parade Marshall for four years in Pictou, Nova Scotia, in remembrance of the No. 2 Construction Battalion from the First World War. As well, he served as Aide to the Governor General of Canada during a function at The Black Cultural Centre in Halifax and was a guest speaker regarding Blacks in the Military. During his time he assisted in the Recruitment of Minorities in the Military (West Nova Scotia Regiment). Peter led by example and earned the respect of many who knew him.

He was a loyal and true friend to his closest friends, and their bond was never to be broken. He had a sense of humour and could be a bit mischievous; his friends would laugh when he used his famous line "Have I got a deal for you". Peter had a friendly and pleasant nature in both his military and civilian life, he was always willing to lend a hand or help with an electrical issue when called upon. Peter loved to dance and music was a big part of his life. He entertained many and was often referred to as "King of the Dance floor Splits", that was all part of his charm.

In 1991, Peter met his loving wife Debbie, and they spent many wonderful years together. During retirement they took trips to Montreal and Ontario to spend time with close family and friends. Unfortunately, it all got cut short with his diagnosis, and their hard journey began. Peter never once complained and he fought like the soldier that he was. The closeness and love that he felt for his brother, Fred, and sister-in-law, Linda, only grew as they supported Peter and Debbie. He had a very special relationship with his niece, Mary-Alice Parker. They were like brother and sister, and Mary stood by Peter in his final days. For that, the family will be forever grateful. Also, their true friends gave much support, and that will never be forgotten.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie; his son, Peter Joseph (Erika); his daughters, Tanya (David) Wilson, and Lisa (Mark) Malley, all of Kentville.

Peter loved all of his grandchildren. Lyric and Journey held a special place in his heart and brought an abundance of joy to him in his later years. He referred to them as "The Girls", and he always wanted them close.

Peter leaves behind a large family to mourn his passing, he loved them all; and is now reunited with other family members, who meant so much to him.

We are forever grateful for the amazing care and compassion shown to both Peter and Debbie by the incredible team at Valley Hospice. A special Thank You as well to Dr. Esther Cogswell, who I think is now a Montreal Canadians Fan, thanks to Peter.

In keeping with Peter's wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or formal funeral service. To honour him, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In Peter's memory, donations are welcomed to Parkinson's Canada, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, or The Valley Hospice Foundation.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to White's Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Kentville.