Donald G. “Don” Bailey, 74, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, passed away on February 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in 1951 in Johnstown, Don was a pillar of the community whose influence reached far beyond the classroom and the football field.

Family and Legacy

Don was the devoted husband of Diane Rose (Carson) Bailey, with whom he shared a beautiful 53-year journey. Above all, Don was a family man who loved spending every possible moment with Diane. Together, they shared a love for travel, especially retreating to their second home in Marco Island, Florida, where they found peace and joy by the water.

His legacy lives on through his sons, Brandon (Heather) Bailey and Derek Bailey; and his five cherished grandchildren: Karsen, Morgan Rose, Koby, Adriana Rose, and Leo. He is also survived by his sister, Chyrle Kormanik, and her husband, Dave. Don was preceded in death by his parents, George L. and Nadine (Hillegas) Bailey, and his sister, Linda Bailey.

A Life of Perseverance

Don was a man defined by grit and faith. He fought a long and courageous battle with atrial heart disease, prostate cancer, metastatic melanoma, and the effects of a stroke. He faced each medical challenge with unwavering strength, supported every step of the way by his wife, Diane. Her selfless and devoted care throughout his illnesses was a testament to their enduring bond, allowing him to face his final years with dignity and comfort.

Education and Athletics

A pioneer in his family, Don was the first to graduate from high school, attend college, and earn advanced degrees. A 1969 graduate of Forest Hills High School, he was a standout three-sport athlete, earning nine varsity letters. He attended Southern Illinois University on a football scholarship before graduating from California University of Pennsylvania with both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. He furthered his commitment to leadership by earning his Principal certifications and his Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility from Penn State University.

Professional and Coaching Career

Don dedicated his entire professional life to the Forest Hills School District, serving as a teacher, principal, and ultimately, Superintendent. On the sidelines, he became a legend as the Head Football Coach for 45 years, compiling 375 wins, 11 Laurel Highlands championships, and 10 District 6 championships. His contributions earned him inductions into the Pennsylvania Football Coaches Hall of Fame and the Cambria County Sports Hall of Fame, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Football Foundation.

Faith and Character

A man of profound faith, Don was a faithful member of the Salix Bethel Church for over 42 years. He was known for his fierce loyalty to his students and players. Though he had only two sons by birth, Don famously mentored thousands more whom he considered his “sons by choice.”

He lived his life by the words of 2 Timothy 4:7–8:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Service Information

Friends and family will be received from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork. Visitation at Salix Bethel Church from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. Saturday at Salix Bethel, Dr. Chad Brown, presiding. Interment, Mount Hope Cemetery.