Obituary of Lael W. Bagg

Our dear mother, Lael Washburn McCombs Bagg, died peacefully at home on Saturday, May 4, 2024, surrounded by her children. She lived a rich and full life with many friends and a devoted family. Lael was born on June 20, 1933; she was 90. She is predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years, John A. Bagg, Sr., as well as her parents, Vaughn and Marian Washburn, her sister, Lisa Shanley, brothers, Raymond and Alan McCombs, brother-in-law, Duane Bagg, sisters-in-law, Marylou Nye and Marvel Latham, granddaughter, Lauren Ashley Campbell, and son-in-law, Paul Noyd. Lael is survived by her children, Loa Bagg Noyd, Sharon Bagg Battisti (Angelo), David Bagg (Kirsten) and John Bagg, Jr. (Rose), as well as her brother, Ron Washburn (Nancy), sister, Judy Inman (Dave), brother-in-law, Dean Nye (Marcia), sister-in-law, Deb Kennedy (Mike), grandchildren, Paul Noyd, Jr. (Heather), Sarah Noyd, Jeremiah Noyd (Skylar), Brently Campbell (Sarah), Michael Battisti (Marie), Angela Battisti (Cris), Anthony Battisti (Natalia), Scott Bagg (Emily), Hannah Bagg (Joseph), Jonathan Bagg (Sierra) and Elisabeth Bagg. She is also survived by several great grandchildren, Parker, Quinn, Payton, Michael, Anthony, Maria, Alexander, Landon, Juliette, Olivia, Sophia, Rylan and Isaac, and many beloved nieces and nephews and a great-great grandchild on the way. A special thank you to Janna, Sharon, Ginny, Lynda, Shayista, Victoria, Yvonne, Dani, Ashley and George for their loving care of our mother. Lael grew up in Susquehanna, PA. She was the valedictorian of her high school and attended Ithaca College, school of music, graduating in 1956. She taught music in the Windsor Central School District until her retirement in 1983. Lael was the music director at the First United Methodist Church of Windsor for 54 years; she was a phenomenal pianist, who started her music career playing dance jobs at the local nightspot when she was just 16 years old. Lael played the music scores for countless dinner theaters at the church well into her 80's. Retiring from the music program at church in early 2022 was difficult for her, as it brought her so much joy. She continued playing at home until recently when her hands could no longer 'tickle the ivories'. Her musical talent lives on in her children, grandchildren and students. Lael was a wonderful matriarch. She loved fiercely, supported unconditionally, and gave freely with no strings attached. She forever mourned the great losses in her life and is now reunited with those who have gone before. Mom, we are heartbroken, but encouraged by what lies ahead for you- eternal life. Services will be at The First United Methodist Church, 56 Chapel St., Windsor, NY. Calling hours will be on Wednesday, May 8th from 4-8 pm and Thursday, May 9th from 11-11:45 am followed by a celebration of life at noon. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the First United Methodist Church's Memorial Fund.