Daniel M. Babcock

Daniel M. Babcock, 86, passed away after a short illness on June 25, 2026, in Cary, NC with his family by his side.

Born on April 26, 1940, in Batavia, New York, Dan was the son of Sherman and Edith Babcock. He spent most of his life in Batavia, where he was raised, attended school, and met the love of his life, Grace Lowe.

He continued his education at The University at Buffalo, earning both his undergraduate and law degrees. During this time, he married Grace, beginning a loving partnership that lasted 64 years until his passing.

After completing law school, Dan joined his father in the practice of law as a 3rd generation Babcock attorney, also serving as an Assistant District Attorney in the 1960s. He proudly served his hometown community for many years until his retirement in 2005. Throughout his life, he remained very involved with many activities at The First Presbyterian Church, where he was a lifelong member, and community organizations as well, including many years in the Rotary Club, always giving of his time and talents.

Dan and Grace shared numerous wonderful chapters together; building a career, raising a family, and enjoying many happy years along the shores of Seneca Lake. Later in life, they spent winters in Florida until Hurricane Ian changed those plans in 2022. Dan remained in Batavia until he and Grace made their final move to Cary, NC in 2025.

Dan lived a very full and interesting life. He was known for his warm smile, playful sense of humor, and love of practical jokes. He could often be found happiest behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, be it a snowmobile, boat or car, and smiling as he drove or bringing laughter to those around him with one of his pranks or stories. Above all, he adored his family and cherished every moment spent with them. Playing with his grandchildren and later, great grandson was one of his favorite pastimes.

Dan will be remembered for his kindness, laughter, humor, devotion to family, and the countless lives he touched throughout his years. His light hearted and jovial spirit were traits that defined him. Dan will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Grace Lowe Babcock; daughter, Judy (Dan) Hayes of Holly Springs, NC; son, Steve (Carolyn) Babcock of Batavia, NY; grandchildren Emily (Matt) Ledford of Marion, NC, Katie (Josh Kowalczyk) Hayes of Durham, NC; Zachary Babcock and Luke Babcock, both of Batavia, NY; and his great-grandson Finnley Ledford. Also surviving are his brothers Thomas (Annie) Babcock, John (Kathy) Babcock, and sister Mary (John) Hildebrandt.

Dan was predeceased by his parents, and step-mother Constance Babcock.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 18, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church, 300 East Main Street, Batavia at 11am followed by a reception at Terry Hills Golf Course Restaurant. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Crossroads House of Batavia, PO Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021.