John D. Bailey

Hackettstown:  John (Jack) D. Bailey, 64, of Hackettstown, NJ, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, August 12, 2025.

Born on June 2, 1961, in Boonton, NJ, and raised in Denville, NJ, he was the beloved husband of Colleen Bailey and a devoted father to his two sons, David Bailey (32) and Matthew Bailey (30).

Jack proudly served in the United States Navy from 1982 to 1986, achieving the rank of Boiler Technician Petty Officer Third Class (BT3) aboard the USS Bagley (FF-1069). After his military service, he continued his career as a dedicated member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 68, as well as a long-standing member of the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife Colleen; sons David and Matthew; mother Janet Wilcox; sister Tracey and her husband Paul Teetes; brother Chris and his wife Brenda Bailey; and the family dog, Cali. He is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and extended family who will deeply miss him. He was predeceased by his father, John Bailey Sr., and his stepfather, Howard Wilcox.

Jack will be remembered for his love of reading, fishing, and sports - his passion for tinkering - and his remarkable ability to fix nearly anything he set his mind to.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held Friday, Aug. 22 at Bello Giorno Estate, 517 US-46, Belvidere, NJ 07823 from 12pm - 3pm. In keeping with his wishes, he will be cremated.

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