James Hughes Baker

James Hughes Baker, 81, of Battle Creek, died November 4, 2022 at Bronson Battle Creek. Jim was born July 8, 1941 in Battle Creek to Edwin and Rachael (Wedel) Baker. He graduated from Michigan State University and Brooks Institute of Photography. Along with his father, Edwin, Jim was the owner and operator of Hamblin Ave. Body Shop. He later worked in sales and retired from HYLEX. Along with his passion for photography, Jim enjoyed biking, fishing, playing dominoes and working his cb radio. He was a member of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church for many years, where he was a tenor in the choir. Jim married the former Elaine Coplin on August 10, 1963, who survives. Also surviving are their children, Greg (Theresa) Baker and Sandra (Brian) Miller; grandchildren, Allison (Garrett Kingsbury) Baker, Jessica Baker, Brooke Miller and Brenden Miller; a sister, Bonnie Neuman; a brother, Ken (Patricia) Baker; a brother-in-law, Marvin (Linda) Coplin; a sister-in-law, Pat Coplin and several nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-in-law, Jim Neuman and Duane Coplin. Funeral services to celebrate Jim's life will be 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 9, 2022 at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, with a luncheon to follow. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, starting at 11:00 a.m. Private interment will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation or to Chapel Hill United Methodist Church. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.