Jessie Bailey

Passed away peacefully at the age of 102, at Granite Ridge Seniors Residence in Stittsville on February 27. Born December 4, 1912 in Georgetown, Ontario, the only daughter of the late David and Mabelle Arch. Very beloved wife of the late H. Bramwell Bailey. She is survived and lovingly remembered by a number of very close friends, particularly Ginette Weisbord Williams (Kelowna, BC), Elizabeth Parry (Ottawa) and Maureen and John Luck (Eganville) who were her comfort during the last part of her life. From childhood, Jessie lived in Ottawa. She was interested in the history of the Ottawa Valley and loved to tell stories of the changes that she witnessed in what was then called the Village of Westboro where she grew up. She was an avid reader of all genres of books and wrote her own poetry. She was an expert on identifying and appraising antiques. But most importantly, she was part of the musical history of Ottawa. From childhood, singing and music were her life passions. She founded, with her husband Bram, the Grand Opera Company of Ottawa which was a very active and important part of the Ottawa musical community during the 1950s and 60s. She was recognized and praised as an accomplished operatic soprano. She taught singing for many years influencing many promising singers from the Ottawa area. Many thanks to the wonderful and caring caregivers at Granite Ridge who eased her passing. The funeral service will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 470 Roosevelt Ave. on Saturday, March 28 at 11:00 a.m. Friends may pay their respects before the funeral service beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Church. Burial will take place at Capital Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, 4120 Rideau Valley Drive would be appreciated.