James Baker
James Earl Baker, of Lockhart, was born in Quanah, Texas, on Nov. 9, 1949 to Franklin Foy and Martha Lou (Wofford) Baker. He graduated from Chillicothe High School and Tarleton State University (‘71). He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, James Easley and Myrtle Baker, William Earl and Mary Jane Wofford, and aunt, Earlane “Sissy” Wofford.
He is survi
ved by his wife, Teresa Baker, their three children and four grandchildren – Jennifer (Todd and Jacob) Crosby, Nathan (Crystal, Nicholas, and Noah) Baker, and Kelly (Will and Brooke) Green.
Mr. Baker’s children write the rest of this obituary.
Dad met his wife, our amazing mother, Teresa Elizabeth (Holmes) Baker, while attending Tarleton. They married Jan. 6, 1973, and have three fabulous adult children, Jennifer Lane Crosby, James Nathan Baker, and Kelly Elizabeth Green.
Though Dad’s career spanned different industries, from the Food and Drug Administration to Texas Department of Transportation (and many in between), there was always a common thread: work with everything you have in you, fully dedicating yourself to making things better. He built relationships with co-workers along the way, giving him some friends we’ve known about for over 50 years.
Dad was an eloquent writer, finding the challenge of writing legislative bills and reviews energizing and invigorating. He was an advocate for 19 years for injured employees, getting them back to work as soon as possible.
Dad loved music, science, a good debate, camping, working in his impeccable yard, decorating for Christmas, and giving gifts. Many times, he had a harder time waiting for present time at birthdays and Christmas than his kids and grandkids!
Dad taught us to have a great sense of humor, laughing even in his last days. He loved to get together with his family and cousins. He was fiercely in love with his grandchildren, Jacob Evan Crosby, Nicholas Eugene and Noah Kirby Baker, and Brooke Azlynn Green, who brought pictures, hugs and kisses, and giggles to the very end for their beloved Pop!
Our family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at Seton Hospital for their commitment to human care. We also want to thank Christopher House for extending compassion beyond words to Dad and our family during his stay.
In lieu of flowers, please consider directing a monetary gift to Hospice Austin’s Christopher House. HospiceAustin.org.
A memorial service will be held at First Christian Church, 3105 RR 12, San Marcos, 78666, on Jan. 17, 2015, at 2 p.m.
Teresa and family,
Thinking about you all. Praying for Gods comfort during this time. Love to all~~