Jesse R. Baker Jr.

My beloved husband, Jesse R. Baker Jr., went to be with the Lord on Feb. 5, 2023, after a sudden illness. My name is Sheila Baker and I'd like to share his story with you.

J.R. was welcomed into the world by his parents, Jesse and Virginia Baker (née Irwin) on April 14, 1954, in Nevada, Mo.

He grew up there, the second of six children: sisters, Cindy Hough and Twila Burton; brothers, Tim, Dennis, and Kendall Baker.

J.R. graduated from Nevada High, class of '73.

J.R. and I met and fell in love at first sight, marrying two weeks later on Sept. 27, 1974. We settled in Nevada, Mo., where he worked for 3M, and where we raised our son, Chris.

We moved to Washington state in 1992, proudly watching our son join the Marines and National Guard and serve three tours in the Middle East during the Global War on Terrorism. Our son wed twice and our family grew.

Our daughters-in-love being Kara and Karyn who gave us our granddaughters, Briana and Hailey.

J.R. possessed many talents and interests such as golf, woodcarving and hunting turkey and elk. The latter he shared with our son.

My husband and I were members of the New Life Church in Longview, Wash., for 24 years where he was dear to our church family. J.R. worked for the gypsum plant on the Columbia River until his retirement. Being an avid golfer, he welcomed retiring to Yuma, Ariz., where we resided and worked part-time at the Carefree Village Resort. He made many friends there and on the links playing with the JRs Golf Club League. He enjoyed teaching golf as well.

J.R. shared with me 49 years of love and laughter and sometimes tears. He lost his life suddenly from Covid-19. Through his brief battle with this illness, he kept a positive attitude and held my hand. Our son Chris and I sat at his bedside as he passed.

My husband was so kind, strong and generous. He is mourned by both his Missouri family and his Washington family. Among those who count him as a brother are my siblings and their spouses: Mike and Bev Jackson, Carl and Sandi Jackson, Larry and Betty Jackson. Deborah and Ben LA Fountaine, Steve and Fonda Jackson, Mark and Charlotte Jackson, Toni Jackson, Tamara Jackson, and Melissa and Dan Machleid, and Daniel Jackson. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews and wonderful friends. Let's not forget our pups, Baby and Penny.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Virginia; and his nephew, Eric Killion.

J.R. never met a stranger. His friends in Yuma, Ariz., held a special celebration of life for him there. His family service will be held in Longview, Wash. — date to be determined.