Nancy L. Baker

Nancy L. Baker, 84, of Moravia, passed away on January 11, 2026 at the Commons on St. Anthony in Auburn.

Nancy was born on April 4, 1941 in Auburn, a daughter of the late Calvin James Newhart and Mary Ella (Sorrell) Newhart Mather. A lifelong area resident, Nancy graduated from Moravia High School and worked in several areas throughout her career helping and caring for others. She worked as a cook in several restaurants, a Town Clerk in Genoa, as a house-parent at George Junior Republic and a case-worker for 15 years at Cayuga Counseling Services in Auburn. A life of giving of herself to help everyone from family members to perfect strangers.

Nancy was a kindhearted and fierce guardian who always put others first, especially those who needed help the most—whether they were people or stray dogs. She had a rare gift for lifting others up, doing so with her warm smile, gentle words, comforting food, or simply a firm, reassuring touch. Though she may not have realized it herself, Nancy was deeply passionate about caring for others and always saw the best in them.

She found great joy in cooking and baking, spending time with her family, reading, and lovingly caring for her dogs. She especially enjoyed watching the birds at the feeder, with a fondness for cardinals and hummingbirds, as well as playing cards, dancing and playing piano. Nancy’s compassion, generosity, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She is survived by her 5 children: Maureen Varney, of Moravia, Michael Hagin (Eileen), of Moravia, Patrick Hagin (Deborah), of Scipio Center, John Hagin (Tammy), of ME, and Randy Hagin, of VA as well as 8 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; sisters-in- law Marjorie Newhart, of Moravia, and Sharon Newhart, of MD; and 5 nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers, William James "Jim" Newhart and David Newhart, and daughter-in-law Virginia Hagin, along with companions, Edgar "Ed" Rightmire and Thomas Bothwell.

Per her wishes the family will gather for a private service at a later date.

Memorial donations may be sent in her name to the Powers Library, PO Box 71, Moravia, NY 13118.

Arrangements are with the Shurtleff Funeral Home, and online condolences may be shared with her family at www.shurtleffservices.com .