Lillian Baker

Asheville - Lillian Murphy Baker of Asheville, age 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, in Asheville, North Carolina.
Born on Nov. 29, 1931, in Yancey County, she was the daughter of the late Pink Murphy and Ellen Butner Murphy. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her son, Jerry Baker; daughter, Jeanna Page; sister, Sadie Fortner; seven brothers, Jake, Jack, Cecil, Harley, Lonas, Tommy, and Junior Murphy; and grandson, Matthew Baker.
Baker lived a long, full life rooted in love, faith, and the mountains she called home. She was married to her devoted husband, the late Eugene Baker, with whom she shared many cherished years. She was a dedicated employee of Ingles Markets for 30-plus years, where she worked in the meat department. Lillian was known for her love of camping, taking trips to the lake, browsing thrift stores, and listening to gospel music. Her gentle spirit shone brightest in her faith, and she was a proud member of Grassy Branch Baptist Church.
She is survived by her sister, Shirley Winters of Crabtree Creek in Spruce Pine; grandson, Michael (Lara) Page of Fairview; great-grandchildren, Christopher (Abbie) Page and Chloe Page, both of Fairview; great-great-granddaughter, Emmy Page; sister-in-law, Milidene Baker Wilson of Burnsville; son-in-law, Jimmy Page of Asheville; neighbors, Dan (Donna) Carter; her caregiver, Joyce Mathis; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Lillian adored her family across the generations and took tremendous joy in watching them grow.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home in Burnsville. The family received friends and loved ones from 1 - 2 p.m. prior to the service. Pastor Jimmy Page officiated. Interment followed the service at Bakers Creek Cemetery in Burnsville.
Donations may be made in Lillian's honor to Gideons International at P.O. Box 264, Burnsville, NC.
Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Baker family.