Local Legend Norman N. Nye Passes Away at 99

Norman N. Nye, a cherished figure in Ashfield, Massachusetts, passed away on December 24, 2025, at the age of 99. Born on October 27, 1926, to Robert and Hazel Nye, he spent nearly a century living on Main Street, becoming an integral part of the community.

Predeceased by his wife, Elisabeth Crowell Nye, as well as his daughter, Judith A. Nye, and son, William N. Nye, Nye is survived by his son, Timothy R. Nye, and daughter, Susan E. Nye (Todd Gerry). He also leaves behind grandchildren Patrick Nye Magee (Sarah Morrison), Kaitlin Nye Magee, Nicholas N. Nye, and great-grandson Cormac M. Magee. His legacy extends to numerous nieces and nephews, including Richard Lilly, Steven Lilly, Barry Nye, Regina Carmichael, and Marylyn Young.

A Lifelong Connection to Ashfield

Known for his warm personality and sense of humor, Nye often wore a T-shirt proclaiming him a “Local Legend,” reflecting his deep roots in the town. He attended the one-room Plain School and graduated from Sanderson Academy in 1945. Throughout his life, he engaged in various sports, earning recognition as an outstanding pitcher in high school and winning the MVP title at the Tri-State Championship that same year. His passion for baseball remained strong, as he played with neighborhood children and cheered for his sons and grandson, always supporting the Boston Red Sox.

In addition to baseball, Nye was an accomplished golfer, serving as the club champion at the Ashfield Community Golf Course, where he played well into his 90s. His love for the outdoors manifested in a lifelong commitment to hunting and fishing, and he was a member of the Ashfield Rod and Gun Club for 83 years.

A Legacy of Service and Community

Nye’s professional journey began as a teenager at Ted Day’s store, followed by roles at C.W. Ward trucking and the Ashfield Highway Department. He later joined his family’s plumbing business, R.H. Nye Inc., where he worked as a Master Plumber until his retirement. He humorously claimed that if a house in the area had plumbing, his fingerprints were likely on it.

Contrary to the typical image of a New England Yankee, Nye embraced new arrivals to the town, fostering friendships with many. In his later years, he could often be found on his front porch, greeting pedestrians and sharing stories about the changes he witnessed in Ashfield and the world at large.

In accordance with his wishes, services will be private. Those wishing to honor his memory may consider donations to support his passions for baseball and golf, either to Ashfield Baseball c/o Eben LaBelle, 40 Stroheker Rd, Ashfield, MA 01330, or the Ashfield Community Golf Course, P.O. Box 454, Ashfield, MA 01330.

As the community reflects on the life of Norman N. Nye, his enduring spirit and connection to Ashfield will be fondly remembered.