Obituary of Doreen L. Baker

Adams, NY – Doreen L. Baker, 69, of County Route 85, passed away at home on January 27, 2022, after a too-short battle with pancreatic cancer, in the presence of her family, and under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County. Born in Oswego, NY to James W. and Barbara (Forscutt) Shutts, she lived in Hannibal, NY as a small child until 1957, when she moved to Adams, NY. She attended South Jefferson Central School and graduated in 1970. After graduation, she moved to Washington, DC and worked for the FBI for a short time before returning to Adams, NY and marrying Ralph R. Baker on May 26, 1972. Doreen worked for 30+ years as a bus driver for the South Jefferson Central School. She cared deeply for all the students she transported, and always referred to them as “my kids,” and she loved them as such. Doreen will be remembered as a selfless, warm-hearted, funny, and compassionate woman. She was a member of the Mannsville Manor Rescue Squad for a number of years. In her younger years, Doreen enjoyed riding horses and snowmobiling. Later, she enjoyed playing cards, and spending time with close friends. Doreen was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ralph after he lost his battle to cancer in 1989, and predeceased by her parents, James and Barbara (Forscutt) Shutts. Doreen is survived by her three children; Debbie (Joseph Sr.) Donoghue, Adams Center, NY; Candice Ariola, Syracuse, NY; and Ralph (Marya) Baker, Billings, MT; two brothers and their wives; James Jr. (Penny) Shutts, Sandy Creek, NY; and Kevin (LuAnn) Shutts, Lavernia, TX; six grandchildren; two great grandchildren; several cousins, nieces, and nephews; as well as her canine companion, Stella. Debbie, Candice, and Ralph wish to express their sincere gratitude to their Uncle Jim and Aunt Penny for the love and care they provided to their mother throughout the years, but especially these last few months. Doreen was blessed to have you in her life. Calling hours will be Wednesday, February 2, 2022 from 4:30-6:30pm at the Piddock Funeral Home, Adams, NY. Spring burial with a private graveside service will be in the Rural Cemetery, Adams, NY. Condolences may be made at www.piddockfuneralhome.com