EDMESTON – Rachel Elizabeth Bagg, 95, of Edmeston, went home to be with her Lord on Friday, May 6, 2011.
She had been residing in Blossvale, in the home of her granddaughter and her family, Kimberlie and Michael Kessler, since January of this year. It was there that she passed away peacefully under Hospice Care, surrounded by family.
Born Rachel Lloyd on Nov. 25, 1915 in South Edmeston, she was the 5th child born to Clifford and Clara (Carpenter) Lloyd. She graduated from New Berlin Central School and worked as the personal assistant to Florence Chesebrough at Otsego School in Edmeston. In 1945 she opened her home for 24 children with disabilities varying from mental delay to Down’s Syndrome. She became known as the pioneer for Family Care, being honored in 2002 with a Lifetime Achievement award from the State of New York.
On Nov. 12, 1938, she married Hawley Albert Bagg. The couple resided for many years at 45 North Street in Edmeston. Rachel hosted Good News Clubs in her home, worked tirelessly in the church, and will be remembered for her public service, witness for Christ, and endless desire to serve and care for others. Her life, as well as her famous chocolate cake, has left an imprint on the lives of everyone she knew.
Surviving is one son Douglas and Joan of Edmeston, and two daughters, Patricia Martins of Delphi Falls and Joyce Stanzel of Webster, as well as 11 grandchildren and 25 great-granchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, husband of 48 years, a daughter-in-law Bernadine Bagg and several other family members. She was the last remaining sibling.
Calling hours will be held from noon to 2 p.m. with the funeral immediately following on Thursday at Dakin Funeral Home LP, 17 North Main Street, New Berlin.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent in her memory to Hospice and Palliative Care Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY, or Word of Life Camp Scholarship Fund, Word of Life, PO Box 600, Schroon Lake, NY 12870. Attention: Bob Brown.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.dakinfuneralhome.com.