Debra Jane Bailey

In Loving Memory of Debra Jane Bailey

November 6th, 1955 - July 28th, 2025

Debra Jane Bailey, 69, beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away July 28, 2025, surrounded by family. Originally from Stratham, New Hampshire, Debbie later retired with her husband, Gordon, to New Bern, North Carolina where she embraced a slower pace of life and continued to fill her days with love, generosity, and creativity.

A woman of warmth, energy, and deep compassion, Debbie’s life was defined by the meaningful relationships she nurtured and the happiness she brought to others simply by being herself. Her laughter was infectious, her presence comforting, and her spirit unfailingly vibrant.

She was predeceased by her husband Gordon Bailey, her father James Scamman, and her brother Joseph Scamman. She is survived by her daughter Chelsea and her husband Kevin Arsenault, her son Tyler and his wife Lauren Bailey, her mother Josephine Scamman, and her brother James Scamman Jr.

Debbie had an extraordinary gift for making others feel special. Whether hosting gatherings full of laughter and good food, or finding the perfect little gift to brighten someone’s day, she had a natural instinct for spreading happiness and kindness. She loved shopping, especially for others, and surprising loved ones with thoughtful tokens that showed how deeply she cared. Giving came naturally to her, and she found deep satisfaction in small acts of kindness.

Creativity was at the heart of who Debbie was. She poured her talents into baking, sewing and crafting, always infusing her projects with care and love. Her home was often filled with the smell of something fresh from the oven. She loved baking alongside her children and putting her touches on family recipes. The hum of a sewing machine often filled the house as she made costumes for Chelsea’s theater productions, pageant dresses for the Little Miss Stratham Fair, and countless other homemade creations to share with neighbors and friends. In quieter moments, she found joy in working on diamond art and puzzles, always with the same patience and attention to detail she brought to everything she did. Her handmade creations weren’t just beautiful; they were labors of love, given freely and received with gratitude.

Debbie was a proud small business owner who channeled her creativity into Classy Kids Boutique, a children’s clothing shop that became a beloved part of the community. With her sense of style and welcoming nature, she created a space where families felt supported and where childhood was celebrated. Earlier in her career, she worked alongside her mother and brothers at the family business, Stratham Travel. She enjoyed helping others plan vacations and cruises that created meaningful experiences and brought families together.

Debbie also found deep peace on the water. Sailing with Gordon and their family brought her a sense of freedom and contentment. As a lifetime member of the American Yacht Club, she loved the feeling of the wind on her face and the calm of being surrounded by the sea. Sailing was one of her greatest joys and a place where she felt most herself.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at her home in New Bern. In the summer of next year, her remains will be spread at sea at the same latitude and longitude where her beloved husband Gordon was laid to rest, reuniting them in a place they both loved most.

A year and 10 days after the passing of her soulmate, Gordon, Debbie has joined her captain once again, sailing for seas unknown and where we cannot follow.

Her radiant spirit, generous heart, and loving nature will be remembered always. Debbie lived a life full of connection, creativity, and care. The world is brighter because of her, and her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.