Paul Michael Bailey

Paul Michael Bailey, 76, of Shelton, Washington, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, after a brief illness, with his beloved wife Diane by his side.

Born on September 26, 1949, in Chelan, Washington, to Noble Everett Bailey and Myrtle Frances Reese Bailey, Paul spent a lifetime serving his country and his community. While most of his military colleagues, coworkers, and acquaintances knew him as Paul, family and close friends knew him as Mike. To his mother, he would always be "Charlie Brown.”

Paul often joked that he was "born under a rock in Chelan," a reflection of the quick wit and sense of humor that remained with him throughout his life and brought laughter to those around him.

Paul proudly served his country for 20 years, from 1971 to 1991, in the United States Army and the United States Coast Guard. During his military career, he served as both a Finance Specialist and Recruiter/Retention NCO, earning numerous awards and commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal. His service was a source of lifelong pride and reflected the dedication, professionalism, and integrity that defined his character.

Following his military retirement, Paul continued his life of public service through a 28-year career with the United States Postal Service. He took great pride in serving his community and helping others.

Family and loyalty were at the center of Paul's life. He carried a lifelong love for his first wife, Patricia Ann DuBorg Bailey, who preceded him in death after a courageous battle with cancer. In later years, he found love again with Diane, and together they built a life filled with companionship, laughter, and cherished memories.

Paul enjoyed the simple things that made life good. He loved country music, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, spending time on his tractor, and caring for his beloved Italian Greyhounds. Motorcycling was one of his lifelong passions, and he spent many years sharing that passion with others. He was happiest outdoors, working around the property, sharing stories, and making people laugh with his sharp sense of humor and trademark wit.

Paul and Diane made their home in Shelton after previously living in Port Orchard, where they formed many lasting friendships and memories.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Noble and Myrtle Bailey; his first wife, Patricia Ann DuBorg Bailey; and his brother-in-law, Jerry Dean Liebert.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Patricia King Bailey; his daughter, Mandy Bailey of Seattle; his stepdaughter, Cheryl Celaya of Ocala, Florida; his granddaughter, Chloe Zimmer of Silverdale; his sister, Sharon Sue Liebert of East Wenatchee; his brothers, Kenneth Bailey of Omak and Thomas Bailey of Tukwila; as well as extended family and many dear friends.

Whether known as Paul, Mike, or Charlie Brown, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud veteran, dedicated public servant, loyal friend, and a man who never missed an opportunity to share a joke or bring a smile to someone's face. Having spent nearly five decades serving his country and community, his legacy of service, kindness, humor, and loyalty will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Sunset Lane Memorial Park in Port Orchard, Washington, where he will be laid to rest.