Clinton-Brendon J. Bailey, 75, a life long Clinton resident, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 08, 2008 at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston after being stricken ill. He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years Karen (Sorel) Bailey; three sons, Paul J. Bailey and wife Lynn of Winchester; Brendan J. Bailey, USMC, and wife Nicolette, stationed in Ft. Worth, TX; and Kevin M. Bailey and wife Carolanne of Gardner; a sister, Joan Bailey of New London, CT; three brothers, John Bailey and wife Mary of Lancaster; Philip Bailey and wife Barbara, and David Bailey, all of Clinton. He leaves nine grandchildren, Steven O'Connell, Katelyn, Tricia, Stephanie, Sean, Lauren, Elizabeth, and Ryan Bailey, David Carnes; two great-grandchildren, Gavin Richard and Ashlyn Carnes; mother-in-law Marion Sorel of Clinton, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by four brothers, George, Joseph, Francis, and James Bailey, two sisters, Natalie Burgoyne and Katherine Martin, and sister-in-law Nancy Bailey.
Brendon was born in Clinton, one of sixteen children to the late George F. and Elizabeth (Heagney) Bailey. He was a graduate of the Clinton High School Class of 1951. Following graduation, he enlisted to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy during the Korean conflict. Upon his return, Brendon obtained a bachelor's degree in Education from Fitchburg State College, a master's degree in Education from Worcester State College, and a CAGS from Clark University. A career educator, Mr. Bailey began teaching with the Shrewsbury Public School System prior to being named curriculum coordinator for the Clinton Public Schools in 1970. Four years later, he was appointed Superintendent of Schools to the Town of Clinton, a position he proudly served for twenty years until his retirement in 1994. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Bailey has served on numerous boards and committees and held membership with various organizations, most notably with the Town of Clinton as a member of both the Finance and School Committees, Knights of Columbus, Clinton Lodge of Elks, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Crystal Club Charity, and Massachusetts Teachers Association. Brennie was a member of the Thursday Night Golf League and a loyal fan of the Boston Red Sox. He was a devoted member of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in Clinton and served on their Finance Committee. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2008 from the Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, 176 Water St., Clinton, with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10AM in St. John the Evangelist Church, 80 Union St., Clinton. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery, Lancaster.