James H. Baker 1938-2024

Born in Youngstown, July 1, 1938, the son of the late Worthington and Alice Houston Baker of Canfield, Jim’s life was a testament to love, family, laughter, service and Jesus.

Jim leaves behind his supportive wife of nearly 60 years, Susan (Brandon) Baker; two loving children, Whitney (Elizabeth) Baker and Kimberly (Sandy) Roy; three beautiful grandchildren, Alex (Taylor) Baker, Jordan Baker and Madalyn (Jaret) Johnson; and three wonderful great-grandchildren, Owen, Eli and Beau Baker, all of whom loved Jim so much!

Jim met his beloved wife through teaching in Youngstown in 1963, marking the beginning of an amazing journey together. Jim loved teaching. He received a bachelor’s degree in education from Kent State University, a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina and a Ph.D. in education from The Ohio State University. He then went on to have a career in education at Austintown Fitch Schools for 32 years, followed by eight additional years as a professor at YSU. After retirement, he volunteered at Fellows Riverside Gardens in Mill Creek Park.

Jim loved spending time with family and friends, making people laugh and gardening, where his flowers were so beautiful. He also loved Ohio State football, Austintown Fitch and Canfield, where he and his family resided for more than 37 years, and Jim was a proud member of Canfield Presbyterian Church.

Jim and Sue have enjoyed living in Florida for the past 19 years.

There will be a private celebration of life with the family. In lieu of sending flowers, you can make a contribution to benefit Fellows Riverside Gardens in memory of James Baker, made payable to Mill Creek MetroParks Foundation, P.O. Box 596, Canfield, OH 44406; or online at https://lovemillcreek.org/james-baker-memorial.

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