Sally M. (Brownell) Bakker

Sally M. Brownell Bakker of Central Square, New York peacefully went home to her Lord and heavenly family on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, after a several-year battle with dementia.

Born in Syracuse, New York on May 23, 1952, daughter of the late Gordon and Avis Jackson Brownell. In addition to her parents, Sally was predeceased by her loving husband of 46 years, David W. Bakker, brother, David G. Brownell and sister, Susan Brownell VerHow.

Sally was a lifelong resident of the Central New York area. She was known for her exuberance for life and joy of learning. Sally dedicated her professional career to education, serving as a teacher of Family & Consumer Science in several schools, most recently at Cicero-North Syracuse High School, prior to retirement. Passionate about food and nutrition, she enjoyed cooking with her family, developing new recipes, and judging food entries at the New York State Fair.

Sally’s faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, was paramount in her life. Church fellowship, Bible study, and a rich prayer life were an integral part of how she lived. She was always a willing volunteer at her church home of many years, Cicero United Methodist, and invested her time in many activities of church life. An avid lover of music, Sally enjoyed singing in school and church choirs. She also played the piano and flute. As a frequent patron of the Syracuse Symphony, she introduced her nephews to many a musical production.

Travel was a favorite pastime for Sally and her late husband. Many visits were spent in warm conversation, reliving cherished memories, and looking through photographs of shared adventures—from day trips and camping excursions to cruises and guided tours in destinations throughout the United States and abroad.

Sally had a great sense of humor and adored her family. She was always ready to play a game, share a laugh, a listening ear, or a helping hand. While her final years were marked by the challenges of dementia, she maintained her wit, kindness, and love for others. Even as her memory faded, she continued to recognize and cherish the family and friends who visited her often.

Sally is survived by nephews, Pieter VerHow and Jonathan (Rachel) VerHow; many grand-nephews; cousins; siblings-in-laws and extended family members.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00am on Friday, May 1, 2026 with services to follow immediately at Cicero United Methodist Church, 8416 Brewerton Road, Cicero, New York.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sally’s memory may be made to Cicero United Methodist Church.

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