Bobby Baker

Mr. Bobby Neal "Chuck" Baker, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully departed this life on January 13, 2026, surrounded by his cherished family at Grandview Medical Center. Born on April 14, 1945, in Talladega, Alabama, to David Oneal Baker and Ozella Mitchell Baker, he journeyed through 80 years filled with love, laughter, and devotion to his family and community.

From an early age, Mr. Baker's faith was an unwavering guide. He accepted Christ at Sunlight Baptist Church and found a new spiritual home alongside his wife, Ernestine, at Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church. A proud graduate of Talladega County Training School, he embarked on a path of hard work that led him from construction industry with Moss and Thornton in building Interstate 20 to a dedicated 30-year career as a molder in the foundry industry at U.S. Pipe, eventually retiring to enjoy the fruits of his labor.

Mr. Baker, affectionately known as "Chuck" by his family and friends was an outdoorsman at heart. The quiet riverbanks sang songs of tranquility to him as he awaited the BIG CATCH with rod and reel in hand. His true passion, however, lay in hunting-an art he mastered with joy and generosity, sharing the bounty with friends and family alike. As he processed deer for people near and far, he also traveled throughout the state as a member of Racing City Hunting Club. A true son of Alabama, he took pride in his beloved Auburn Tigers, cheering them on with a fervor that resonated through family gatherings. Furthermore, Mr. Baker's rhythmic voice once graced the stage as a member of "The Lincoln Traveleers," a gospel group enriching the lives of many in Lincoln, Alabama and surrounding communities.

In May of 1967, Mr. Baker married the love of his life, the former Ms. Ernestine White, and together they nurtured a beautiful family. Their union was blessed with children, Tavia and Burtron, who filled their home with laughter and love. As a devoted husband and father, he embodied the spirit of family, delighting in the roles of PawPaw to his adoring grandchildren, Noelle, Seth, and Micah. A known jokester, Mr. Baker had a remarkable ability to bring smiles to those around him, forever keeping a straight face while sharing his delightful sense of humor.

As we gather to honor and celebrate Mr. Baker's life, we reflect on the vibrant tapestry of memories woven with love, marked by the spirit of generosity and kindness he imparted to all. He is welcomed into eternal rest by his parents, David and Ozella Baker, his beloved son Burtron, and other beloved family members including his brother, Kirkie D. Baker, sisters, Bernice Baker and Marvella Garrison, and sister-in-law, Quinell Madden leaving behind a legacy filled with warmth and affection.

Mr. Bobby Baker is survived by his devoted wife of over 59 years, Ernestine Baker; loving daughter, Minister Tavia (Elder Ronald) Baker-Sillmon; his adored grandchildren, Noelle Iman Sillmon, Seth Oneal Sillmon, and Minister Micah Milan Sillmon; his treasured great-grand fur babies, Queen and Blu; sisters, Margaret (Raymond) Fomby, JoAnn (Roosevelt) Fomby, and Evelyn (Eloyd) Gooden; special niece, Bridgette Kennedy; special nephew, Gary (Vanessa) Fomby; nieces and nephews, Constance (Jeffrey) Vincent, Ashley Gooden, Christopher (Dominique) Gooden, George Garrison, Garrett Garrison, Gregory Garrison, Tracey (Clifford) Benguche, Cheryl Mosley, Quindell Mosley, Clete (Veronica) White, Eileen White, Akeem White, and Calvin N. White; brother-in-law, and Calvin (Earlene) White; and an array of cousins, other relatives, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

In this time of remembrance, let us honor Mr. Bobby Neal Baker's indelible spirit, carrying his love forward as we navigate our own paths, forever enriched by the moments we shared with him.