Walter John Bailey

The family is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Walter Bailey, 70, a resident of Lafayette.

He was born on March 14, 1953 to Lalis and Ada Bailey of New Iberia. Early in life, Walter learned the importance of hard work, as he drove hot shot trucks for many years and he taught many of us the importance of hard work and doing what is right. He was a man of very strong faith attending Holy Cross Catholic Church weekly and every holiday.

When retirement wasn't fun anymore he went on to help a longtime friend Ricky Veron at Little Veron's Grocery Store, where you could find Walter six days a week at 5:00 am.

He was a passionate fisherman and could often be found in Lake Martin along with his brother, Francis. He loved to get any bite on his hook but he mostly loved catching bass.

Walter is survived by his only daughter, Jami Bailey Nereaux and her husband Louis of Rosedale, La.; three grandchildren, Tanner Thibodeaux, Tyler Nereaux, and Rylan Nereaux; one great-grandchild, Dallas Carlin; and his brother Francis Bailey and his wife Jenny of Lafayette. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ada and Lalis Bailey; one sister, Jean Bailey Romero; and five brothers, Milton Bailey, Percy Bailey, Ivy Bailey, Jerry Bailey, and Jimmy "Boogie" Bailey.

Our family respects the wishes of Walter and will not be holding services. Though Walter was a private person, he was an important part of our community and his loss is deeply felt.