Willard "Bill" Bailey Jr.

Willard "Bill" Fee Bailey Jr. passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026 at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, laughter, and lifelong learning. Bill was born on November 12, 1941, in St. Paul, Minnesota, the only child of Willard Fee Bailey Sr. and Mildred (Thielen) Bailey, he spent his life guiding others, fostering community, and sharing a great story.

His passion for mentorship began in his early teenage years at the St. Paul YMCA Camp St. Croix, where he led craft shops for younger children. His love for the outdoors grew into a role guiding week-long canoe trips down the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers, an experience he cherished deeply.

He went on to study sociology at the University of Minnesota during the vibrant cultural awakening of the early 1960s, finding inspiration in the lively Dinkytown neighborhood.

In 1965, he met the love of his life, Mary Ann. They were married 2 years later, beginning a beautiful life together. Throughout their decades of marriage, one of their favorite shared traditions was taking peaceful walks across their property at dusk, enjoying a glass of wine together.

A dedicated educator, Bill poured his heart into teaching sociology and related courses at the University of Wisconsin-Stout for over forty years. He had a profound impact on generations of students, many of whom formed lifelong relationships with him long after leaving his classroom.

An insatiable reader, Bill was always reading a book. He grabbed anything that piqued his interest, moving easily from acclaimed fiction like John Updike to thrilling Harry Boasch detective novels. He also held a deep, lifelong interest in history, constantly exploring the past through his reading. He was a master storyteller and joke teller who loved to entertain others, always knowing exactly when to pause for effect.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary Ann; his beloved children, Bill (Julie), Ryan, and Shannon (Dave); his cherished grandchildren, Madeline (Mason), Will, and Layla.

A memorial visitation for Bill will be held Monday, August 10, 2026 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church at 10 AM. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 AM with Fr. John Mano officiating. Final rest will be private.

The family send special thanks to the staff and nurses of St. Croix Hospice. Their kindness to Bill in his final days will forever be remembered.

For those wishing, memorials are appreciated to the charity of one's choice.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.rhielfuneralhome.com