Obituary
Fairfield Harbor, New Bern, NC
Gordon Allan Bailey, beloved husband, father, and son, sailed on for seas unknown and where we cannot follow, on July 18th, 2024 at the age of 68. Gordon was preceded in death by his father, Richmond Allan Bailey, and sister, Jennifer Bailey. He is survived by his wife Debra (Scamman) Bailey; daughter and son-in-law, Chelsea and Kevin Arsenault; son and daughter-in-law, Tyler and Lauren Bailey; his mother and her husband, Claire and Peter Frysalis; and brother and sister-in-law, Jonathan and Laurie Bailey.
At the age of 15, Gordon and his family moved from Beverly, MA to River Road in Stratham, NH, where he met his high school sweetheart who would become his wife of 49 years, Debbie Scamman. Gordon, Debbie, and their two children Chelsea and Tyler, lived in Stratham, NH and were an active part of the community. Gordon served on the Stratham Town School Board and worked as an account manager for F.W.Webb.
For over 35 years, Gordon and Debbie were members of the American Yacht Club (AYC) of Newburyport, MA. To say sailing was a passion for Gordon would be an understatement; it was a way of life. Every Friday night in the summer he would be found on the boat, Captain’ and Coke in hand, preparing for a weekend sail to his favorite spots along the Maine, New Hampshire, or Massachusetts coasts. Gordon and Debbie made many lifelong friends at the yacht club, enjoying hosting social events and taking week long sailing trips. Gordon served on the nominating committee of the AYC for many years, and was there every opening and closing day, getting the club ready.
In 2020, Gordon and Debbie sold their home in Stratham, NH and retired to Fairfield Harbor in New Bern, NC. Gordon spent a lifetime by his wife’s side taking excellent care of her, especially the past three years when some health issues arose for Debbie. He learned home health care and was always an advocate for his family and their needs.
This past November, Gordon’s heart (which was damaged many years ago) became weak. The family was by his side as different medical interventions were tried. In March, Gordon suffered two strokes, putting more strain on his already diminished heart. On July 10th , Gordon was transferred to Duke University Hospital where he underwent surgery to implant an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) to help pump his heart. The surgery was a success, but he could not recover from complications after the surgery. Debbie, Chelsea, and Tyler were by his side in the end, and played Jimmy Buffet as he sailed off for parts unknown.
The family would like to thank all of their friends and family for the love and support that has been extended to them. Debbie would like to especially thank Barbara Dion for selflessly coming to stay and help with Gordon’s care; their amazing neighbors, Don and Deb Creekmore and Cindy and Rick Bijas, for being of comfort and helping with rides; and Skip Hurd, which words cannot do justice to describe the gratitude felt for all he has done.
There will be a tribute to Gordon at the American Yacht Club in Newburyport, MA on August 23rd at 4pm. Following will be the annual AYC Caribbean Night, a tradition started by Debbie and Gordon.
