Robert W. Bailey

Robert W. Bailey, 96, of Palm City FL and Blue Bell PA, retired Delaware River Pilot, died Tuesday October 11 at Water’s Edge Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility in Palm City. A U.S. Navy veteran and graduate of the Eckels College of Mortuary Science, Mr. Bailey fulfilled a lifelong dream of being a Delaware River Pilot by changing careers at the age of 31. He was a member of the Pilots’ Association for the Bay and River Delaware from 1957 until his retirement from piloting in 1990. During his time with the pilots, he served 4 years as the Association’s president and was the Association’s PA legislative representative for 18 years. Following his time with the Pilots, he resumed working in the funeral business with All County Funeral Services in Stuart FL where he assisted families for another 20 years. A fan of Jazz and Big Band music, Bob played the drums his entire adult life and after moving to FL in 1988 was a member of several Jazz and Big Band groups that played in the south central FL area. He held a Musician’s Union card for over 65 years. An avid race car fan, Bob restored and owned several antique dirt track race cars, one of which he donated and is on display at the Elliott Museum in Stuart FL. Bob was also a proud member of the Masonic Brotherhood for 71 years. Mr. Bailey is survived by his wife Grace (nee Miller), also of Palm City and Blue Bell, two sons (Robert Jr. and Wayne), 3 grandchildren (Robert III, Allison, and Christopher), and 3 great-grandchildren (Mason, Haidyn, and Regan). A Memorial Service will be held in Palm City, FL on a date yet to be determined. The family requests that donations in his name may be made to the donor’s preferred charity.