The sister of a woman found dead in a Black Country canal says her family has been left with a profound sense of loss. Chereiss Bailey, 36, was discovered in the water near Ryders Green Road in West Bromwich on October 7, 2025.
Family's Grief
Chanel Walsh, Chereiss's sister, described the emotional toll the tragedy has taken on her family. She said: "Since losing her, life has changed completely for our family. It took 175 days before we were finally able to lay my sister to rest, and throughout this heartbreaking journey I have also taken on the care of her little boy, who is now 1 year and 4 months old. Alongside caring for him, I am also raising my own three children aged 1, 3, and 10."
Chanel remembered her sister as a loving person: "My sister was a beautiful soul with the kindest heart. She adored her son and loved her family deeply. My sister meant more to us than words could ever express, a love so deep, no sentence could truly capture it. Losing Chereiss has left a huge emptiness in all our lives."
Fundraiser for Headstone
The family is now organizing a fundraising event to give Chereiss the memorial headstone she "truly deserves." The family fun day will be held at The Ivyhouse Club in Ivyhouse Lane, Coseley, WV14 9JH, on August 9, from noon until late. Activities will include car boot sales, ice cream vans, bouncy castles, a live auction, tombola, raffle, live Deal or No Deal games, a mobile hairdresser, buffet, music, and disco.
Chanel said: "We are hoping to raise around £500-£1000 towards the cost of her headstone and memorial. I know it is a significant amount to raise, and I’m doing everything I can to also save what I can each month too. As a family, any support or donations would mean more than words can say and help us give Chereiss the beautiful headstone and kerbs she truly deserves, a lasting tribute to someone so deeply missed and loved. This event is not only about raising money for Chereiss’ headstone, but also about bringing the community together to celebrate Chereiss’ life and support her son and family."
Legal Proceedings
John Anslow, 64, has been charged with murder and conspiring to prevent the lawful and decent burial of a dead body. Hayley-Marie Ferguson, 41, has been charged with conspiring to prevent the lawful and decent burial of a dead body and assisting an offender. Both are due to stand trial in August this year.
