Carol Anne Bailey
Beloved sister, aunt, friend, and lifelong music lover
Carol Anne Bailey (72) passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025. Carol was born on December 15, 1952.
Carol was a dedicated financial analyst who devoted over two decades of her career to BAE Systems (2003-2025), where her keen intellect and attention to detail were deeply valued. Before that, she worked for many years at Groundwater Technology, where she built a foundation of professional excellence that carried on throughout her career.
A proud alumna of the University of New Hampshire, Carol formed lifelong friendships with Carol Wein and Ronda Flashen. She took great joy in her role as treasurer of the Student Committee on Popular Entertainment (SCOPE), where she helped bring memorable performing acts to campus and sparked a passion for music and the arts that would last a lifetime.
Carol was a true lover of music and the performing arts. A card-carrying member of the Beatles fan club and a longtime guest of George Wein at the Newport Jazz Festival, she also had a special place in her heart for The Wizard of Oz, Broadway musicals, and concerts. Her appreciation for culture and creativity enriched the lives of those around her.
She found great joy in gardening, growing everything from flowers and herbs to vegetables. At the Villages of Kessler Farm, where she was a long-time resident, she was a founding member of the Garden Club and cherished the community she helped cultivate — both literally and figuratively.
Carol also shared her warmth through baking, carrying on beloved family recipes passed down from her mother and grandmother. Her holiday cookie tradition was legendary, making dozens of homemade treats to bring joy to friends and family every Christmas.
An avid tennis fan, Carol attended many major tournaments, including the US Professional in Boston, the US Open in New York, and, most recently, Wimbledon in London in 2024 — a highlight of her lifelong love for the sport.
Carol treasured her visits to Florida to spend the holidays with family. Additionally, she was surrounded by a large group of dear friends who were truly her chosen family. They gathered often, especially on Cape Cod, where laughter and love were always in abundant supply.
Carol is survived by her brothers Alan (Carolyn) Bailey of Irmo, SC and Richard (Jane) Bailey of Venice, FL, nieces and nephews Christine Bailey and Corey Bailey (Ben Peterson), Kristin Licht, Karin Licht Gilstrap (Robert), Karl Licht (Suzie). She was predeceased by her beloved parents, William “Bud” and Doris Bailey (Kirkpatrick).
Those who knew Carol will remember her for her warm demeanor, infectious laughter, and radiant smile. Her kindness, generosity, and joyful spirit touched many lives, and she will be deeply missed.
A celebration of Carol’s life will be held on July 26th in Burlington, MA, details to follow. The Interment will be held on September 6th at Laurel Hill West Cemetery, Bala Cynwyd, PA.