It is with broken hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Bailey John Dunphy, 24, of New Annan, on June 30, 2026. Bailey graduated from Tatamagouche Regional Academy in 2019 and later found his passion in operating heavy-duty equipment. He approached his work with the same determination, and enthusiasm that he brought to every part of his life.

Bailey lived life full throttle and left an unforgettable mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him, as well as on half the roads in Nova Scotia. Whether your time with Bailey was a quick stop to say hello or a full day spent making memories, you were almost always guaranteed to leave with a hug and a heartfelt, "Love ya." It was a simple gesture that perfectly reflected who he was—a young man whose love was never left unspoken and whose presence made everyone feel a little more at home.

No matter the season, Bailey could be found doing what he loved most. Whether he was snowmobiling riding his 4-wheeler, SxS, or roasting the tires off his latest vehicle. Bailey lived for adventure. His quick wit, contagious laugh, and the hilarious random noises only Bailey could make made his presence known and certainly heard everywhere he went.

Bailey was a true friend to everyone. If he loved you, he would drop everything to be there whenever you needed him. He had a nickname for almost everyone he cared about, and those names became a reminder that you had earned a special place in his heart. He had an incredible gift for making people feel safe, valued, and included. No matter what was happening in your life, Bailey could make you laugh, lighten the moment, and remind you that you were never alone.

Bailey was the treasured and deeply loved son of Jenny Dunphy (Kelly Spencer) and Jonathon Mattinson (Candace). He brought endless pride, laughter, and love into their lives—and, as his family would jokingly say, the majority of his mother's grey hair. His unforgettable laugh and larger-than-life personality will forever echo in their hearts.

He leaves behind the love of his life, Bryn Stewart, whom he affectionately referred to as the "prettiest girl in all of New Annan." Together they created countless memories filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Bryn will forever treasure the life they shared and will never forget the way Bailey looked at her with unwavering love and admiration.

Above all else, Bailey loved his family with his whole heart. Fiercely loyal and deeply protective, he never hesitated to show up for the people he loved. His siblings—Hunter, Colton, Jayden, Christian (Sierra), Taylor, and Jaylen—were among the greatest joys of his life. Whether they were together out on an adventure, laughing until they cried, working side by side, or simply spending time together, they shared an unbreakable bond.

Bailey was especially proud to be a big brother to Jayden, Hunter, and Colton. He loved them deeply and was fiercely protective of them. He was someone they could always count on, no matter what was going on, and he made it a point to be there for them through every stage of life. The bond they had was strong and constant, and it will always remain with them.

Bailey extended that same fierce love to his cousins Emma (Josh), Cohen, Devon, Mackenzie, Jorja, Jesse, Foster, Finn, Brady, Carley, Hayden, and all the rest of the "crew" which were all more like siblings to him. Bailey was a treasured grandson of Brian, Connie (Dave), Guy (Sherry), Miriam (Victor), and Carole (Dale). He brought joy with every visit and held a secret hope that he would leave their homes with a dish of homemade peanut butter balls.

He was a cherished nephew of Auntie Amanda (Adam), Amy (Craig), Jessica (Ryan), Ryan Muise, Eric and Alex all of whom were incredibly proud to watch him grow into the remarkable young man he became.

Also left to mourn are Micah and Treva Stewart, along with their children, Gage (Brooke) and Rowe, who instantly embraced him as family.

Bailey was predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Sharon Dunphy, whom he lovingly called "Nanny Bomp Bomp," a nickname that quickly became her well-known name within the family, as well as his maternal and paternal great-grandparents. He will be deeply missed by his extended family members, countless friends, especially Josh, Josh & Josh and many coworkers, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Although Bailey's time with us was far too short, his  adventurous spirit, generous heart, and unforgettable smile, will never be forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bailey's life on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at 123 Ferguson Brook Road, Earltown. We invite everyone to come together to share stories, laughter, and memories as we honor a life that was lived with love, loyalty, and adventure. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or MADD Canada .

Bailey has been entrusted to the care of Coulter's Funeral Home, 48 Riverside Dr., Tatamagouche.