Nelson Sasser Baker

1957 - 2025

Nelson Sasser Baker
KENANSVILLE - Nelson Baker, a devoted husband, beloved daddy, and cherished "Poppie," passed away on April 25, 2025, at City of Hope in Newnan, Georgia, after receiving his diagnosis on April 1, 2025.
He was 67. Born on August 6, 1957, in Duplin County, North Carolina, Nelson was the son of the late Earl Nelson Baker and Carolyn Sasser Baker.
He was a lifelong resident and a true pillar of his community. A proud graduate of James Kenan High School, he went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, where he was a member of the Phi Kappa Alpha fraternity.
Nelson married the love of his life, Pam, and together they built a home and raised their family in Duplin County. For more than 30 years, he owned and operated a successful family lawn care business, earning the trust and admiration of his clients and neighbors. Known for his red Carhart shirt and khaki cargo shorts, you could often see Nelson riding the mower on a Sunday afternoon just to "relax". A passionate supporter of James Kenan High School Athletics, Nelson was honored with the Community Member of the Year Award in 2012 for his unwavering commitment. He gave deeply of himself in service to others-serving for eleven years as a board member of the State Employees Credit Union, and as a Town Commissioner for Kenansville, North Carolina, at the time of his passing.
Following the loss of his beloved wife Pam in 2021, Nelson found solace and strength in continued community service. Just months after her passing, he joined the Kenansville Fire Department, where he found healing in the brotherhood and purpose in giving back. His dedication and heart for service were recognized in March 2025, when he was named Firefighter of the Year.
Nelson is survived by his daughter, Dana Baker and her husband, Bryan Jones, of McClellanville, South Carolina; his son, Brian Baker, of Wilmington, North Carolina; his grandchildren, Ella Grace, Easton, Lucas, and Elsa Rose; his brother, Stanley Baker and wife, Maria, of Magnolia, North Carolina; and numerous loving cousins, who were like extended siblings throughout his life.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pamela Baker; his son, Kevin Allen Chambers Baker; and his parents, Earl and Carolyn Baker.
Nelson's legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering devotion to family and community. His kindness, humor, and servant's heart will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.
Services held on Thursday, May 1, with visitation beginning at 12:30, and service at 2pm, Ed Emory Theater, Duplin Commons, Kenansville, NC.
Burial to follow at Devotional Gardens, Warsaw with full firefighter rights.