William T. Bailey III

William (Bill) T. Bailey III, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, accomplished global business executive, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 24, 2026 at the age of 74.

Born in New Brunswick NJ to William and Ann, William lived a life defined by faith, family, and an unwavering commitment to community. He was a longtime resident of Cresskill, New Jersey, where his leadership left an indelible mark.

Bill's pursuit of excellence began early. He graduated with his Bachelor's degree from Villanova University, a place that sparked his lifelong passion for learning and devotion to service. He went on to earn his MBA from Columbia University, launching a highly distinguished career in the corporate world. 

Bill rose through the ranks of AT&T as a high-accolade executive, respected worldwide for his sharp intellect, integrity, and visionary leadership. Passing it on through two generations, both his daughter, a graduate and now granddaughter, Raffaela, currently attending Villanova University.

Despite his demanding career, Bill's family always remained his greatest achievement and highest priority. He was a deeply loving father to Kenneth and Stacey and an adoring grandfather to Dominick, Lawrence and Raffaela. He rarely missed a game, milestone, or celebration. Bill spent countless years on local fields and courts, volunteering his time to coach sports teams for both his children and later his grandchildren. And loved to support his grandson Lawrence's performance in basketball.

His commitment to mentoring youth extended into the Boy Scouts of America, where he served as an active leader for decades, guiding numerous young men—including his own son and grandson, Dominick—with patience and wisdom. An avid fisherman and outdoorsman, Bill found immense peace in nature, a passion he joyfully passed down through generations during family outings and fishing trips.

Bill's profound faith was the anchor of his life. He was a deeply religious man and an active parishioner of a few Catholic parishes. He lived his faith through action as a professed member of the Lay Carmelite Order and as a dedicated brother in the Knights of Columbus.

Believing strongly in civic duty, Bill gave back to his local community in profound ways. He served the borough of Cresskill, New Jersey, with distinction as a dedicated Council Member. His leadership expanded further into public safety, where he served honorably as both the Police Commissioner and Fire Commissioner, working tirelessly to support and protect his neighbors and first responders.

Bill is survived by his children, Kenneth and his wife Dominique and Stacey and her husband Perry; his grandchildren, Dominick Manoy, Lawrence Bailey and Raffaela Manoy; his brother Mike and his wife Nancy Bailey, his brother Ronald Bailey and his wife Colleen and his sister Kathleen Leithiser and her husband George and many more nieces and nephews and a community of friends, colleagues, and neighbors who will miss his guidance, warmth, and booming laugh. He was predeceased by his Cherished and Loved wife, MaryAnn Cappella Bailey.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in William Bailey's memory to: SMA Society of the African Missions, Tenafly NJ 07670.