Darwin Gilbert Haines, 75, of Newport, passed away peacefully at his home on August 14, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. After bravely battling pancreatic cancer for nearly two years, Darwin laid down his armor to rest and be with the Lord. Darwin was born to the late Ralph and Vera (Woods) Haines of Shippensburg on March 17 th , 1950. Darwin was a lifelong example of dedication, kindness, and service. A graduate of Shippensburg High School’s Class of 1968 and an honorary member of Newport High School’s Class of 1968, Darwin’s commitment to his community began early.
In 1969, Darwin answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. As a member of the US Army Security Agency, he dedicated four years stationed in Turkey and at the Pentagon, exemplifying honor and courage. Upon completing his military service, he continued to serve by working at Letterkenny Army Depot.
Darwin’s passion for helping others was further demonstrated by his career in healthcare. In 1975, he earned his Physical Therapy Assistant degree from Lehigh Carbon County Community College, embarking on a remarkable 35-year career at Harrisburg Hospital. During a brief hiatus, he pursued working as a Locomotive Engineer for Conrail, working along the Main Line.
Darwin is a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Newport and served on the church board and as an advisor to the youth group. As a child he was a member of the Newport First Church if God, where he created many memories with his many Uncles and Aunts. His love for sports was evident in his role as an umpire for women’s and girls’ softball with the American Softball Association, and in his enthusiastic support of Newport’s field hockey and basketball teams, never missing a game that his daughter played in. His coaching of his daughter’s softball team created many cherished memories.
Darwin’s compassion extended beyond people to animals, especially the stray cats of Red Hill, where he earned the affectionate nickname “cat whisperer” for his tireless care and kindness. He was also a proud former member of the Newport American Legion and a Boy Scout in his youth. In recent years, Darwin enjoyed the time he spent with his extended “Burger King Family” in Newport, where he was warmly embraced. He could also be seen spending time on his tractor mowing the lawn, waving to passing friends and enjoying every moment of his time outside.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Vera (Woods) Haines, paternal grandparents, Lewis and Dollie Haines, his maternal grandparents, Paul and Viola Woods, and his beloved feline companion of 19 years, Pee Wee. Darwin leaves behind his loving wife of 49 years, Nancy (Gingrich) Haines; his devoted daughter, Amanda (Haines) Beamer, and her husband, Nate; his sister, Carol (Haines) Schue, and her husband, Lindsey; his brother, Ivan Haines, and his wife, Christine; nieces Kierstin Haines, Seneca Schue, Sierra Schue; nephew Devin Haines; and two great-nephews, Wyatt and Jensen Haines.
Darwin’s legacy of love, service, and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of his family and friends.

Darwin's life will be celebrated  Saturday, August 23 at the Newport First Church of God with visitation from 10 AM until the service at 11 AM. Burial at the Newport Cemetery will be at the convenience of the family.

Memorial Contributions may be made to help those battling cancer to the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at Community General Hospital or Homeland Hospice.