Joseph T. “Joe” Bailey, a respected engineer and beloved family man, passed away on September 15, 2025, following a brief illness. He was 87 years old. Joe is remembered by his wife of 63 years, Cora Faye (Faye), their children Anne (Aline Lindbeck) and Michael (Caroline) Bailey, grandchildren Samuel and Elizabeth Bailey, and brother Carl C. Bailey Jr. He is preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude and Carl C. Bailey Sr., and an infant son, Christopher.
Born on October 16, 1937, in Clemson, South Carolina, Joe developed a passion for engineering early in life. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1959 and a Master of Science degree in 1960, both in ceramic engineering from Clemson University. During his time at university, Joe participated in the Army ROTC, which led to his commissioning as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Ordnance Corps in 1960. He was stationed at Redstone Arsenal in Alabama, where he met Faye, and the couple wed in 1962.
In the same year, Joe began his career in ceramic engineering at the American Lava Corporation, a subsidiary of 3M in Chattanooga, Tennessee. After a brief hiatus to obtain his Ph.D. in ceramic engineering from Ohio State University in 1966, Joe and Faye returned to Chattanooga to raise their family. His dedication to his field led to a successful career spanning 38 years at 3M, culminating in his role as Vice President of Research and Development for the Industrial and Consumer Sector.
Joe’s career took him around the world, where he often claimed he could order a beer in at least five languages. His colleagues remembered him for his adventurous spirit and his ability to “eat anything, anytime, anywhere.”
In 1974, the family relocated to St. Paul, Minnesota, as Joe continued to advance in his career. They quickly adapted to the colder climate, embracing the outdoor lifestyle by purchasing a snowmobile for winter activities and a speedboat for summer fun. After retiring in 2000, Joe and Faye settled into their dream home on Lake Keowee near Clemson. He cherished spending time with family, boating, gardening, and attending Clemson Tigers football games.
Joe remained active in his community, serving on several advisory boards at Clemson University. He was also a member of the Thomas Green Clemson Academy of Outstanding Engineers and Scientists. In 2022, the couple returned to Minnesota to be closer to their daughter, Anne. Even in his later years, Joe stayed engaged in life, frequently going out to dinner, exercising, and caring for Faye, who was in memory care.
A funeral service took place in South Carolina in October, with plans for a memorial service in the Twin Cities in the spring of 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Alzheimers Association.
Joe Bailey’s legacy is one of dedication, love, and a commitment to family and professional excellence. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
