BAKER MCADAMS

WILBOURN BAKER MCADAMS passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born on November 23, 1937, in Tomball, Texas, to proud parents Laura Baker McAdams and W.A. "Red" McAdams.

Baker graduated from Tomball High School in 1956, where he was a National Honor Society student and a standout multi-sport athlete, competing in basketball, track, and football. As a fullback, he was named captain of the football team and selected to the All-District 25A team-a testament to both his talent and leadership. His classmates also honored him with the titles "Best Athlete" and "Best Eyes," reflecting not only his skill but also his charisma.

He went on to attend the University of Texas at Austin, graduating with honors with a B.S. in Physics in 1960, followed by an MBA in Finance from the McCombs School of Business in 1962. During his time at UT, he was an active member of Phi Sigma Kappa and Phi Eta Sigma, an honors fraternity.

It was at UT where Baker met the love of his life, Penelope "Penny" Pojman. They married in 1961, raised two children-Natalie and Mark-and shared over sixty-four beautiful years together. The couple spent their honeymoon in Aspen, Colorado-a place that quickly captured their hearts. Years later, they purchased a vacation home there, where they created lasting memories with family and friends for decades to come.

A proud and loyal Longhorn throughout his life, Baker remained closely connected to his alma mater. He was a Lifetime Member of the Red McCombs School of Business Advisory Council. In 1991, he and Penny established an Endowed Presidential Scholarship at the University of Texas. Since its inception, the scholarship has been awarded 72 times to undergraduate business students in recognition of academic excellence, financial need, and course of study.

In 1963, Baker served as an Airman Third Class in the United States Air Force - Air National Guard, assigned to the 3377th School Squadron in Amarillo, Texas. He was honored as an "Honor Graduate" of the U.S. Air Force 136th Air Defense Wing's technical training program for his outstanding performance, dedication, and dependability.

That same year, he began his professional career as a consultant at Arthur Andersen, later transitioning to its consulting division, Accenture. Over the course of his 32-year career, he held multiple leadership roles-including Head of Oil and Gas in Houston-and became known for his sharp intellect, tireless work ethic, and unwavering integrity. He retired in 1995 as Managing Director of Technology for Europe, Asia & Africa. Never one to remain idle, Baker joined his son Mark's team at Smith Barney, later Morgan Stanley, where he continued to lend his insight and expertise until his final retirement in 2012.

In retirement, Baker remained deeply engaged in both his community and his faith. He was an active member of Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, where he served as a deacon, elder, and board member. He also served on the board of Spring Spirit Baseball. His steady presence, thoughtful counsel, and gentle humor as a mentor made a lasting impact on those fortunate to know him.

He found great joy in traveling, hiking, playing golf, cheering on Longhorn football, attending Texans games, and creating cherished memories with his family and friends.

Baker was preceded in death by his parents, Laura and W.A. "Red" McAdams. He is survived by his beloved wife, Penny; daughter Natalie, and granddaughter Baker Grace; son Mark and his wife Lisa, and their children, Jack and Morgan.

Baker will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, a dedicated and supportive father, a kind and thoughtful father-in-law, a deeply adored grandfather, and a mentor to many. His strength, generous heart, and unwavering commitment to his family leave behind a legacy of love, humility, and grace.

Those wishing to make a memorial gift may do so to: Houston Parkinson's Foundation