Brian Baines

Obituary
Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the life of Brian Keith Baines, who's loving, charming personality, and infectious smile touched the hearts of many. So, as we engage in these moments of reflection and remembrance, let us remember to pay homage to his passions, interests, and vibrant spirit, while also fostering a sense of connection, among all attendees.
Brian Keith Baines AKA "Big Sexy" AKA "B" was born on December 21, 1960, to Robert and Margaret "Peggy" Baines in Bedfordshire, England. During his younger years, he spent time living in Ankara Turkey, Boston Massachusetts, Bedfordshire England, and finally settling in Dover, Delaware with his six siblings (four brothers and 2 sisters).
Brian was preceded in death by his brothers Orlando and Anthony Baines.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his life partner, Sandra Johnson Downs AKA "Boo", parents, Robert and Margaret "Peggy" Baines, sisters, Valerie Lofland and Sharon Deputy, brothers, Thomas "Tom" and Reginald "Reggie" Baines, son, Jamar Keith Cain, daughter, Sharday Tribbett, grandson William Kulhanek Jr, brother-in-law, Terry Deputy his nieces and nephews, Danielle Baines, Regina Baines, Andrew Lofland, Aisha Lofland, Jalisa Baines, Alexia Deputy, Chris Baines. Maya El and a host of aunts, uncles, great nieces, and nephews. His family extended to his brothers of the heart, Joe Carpenter and Steven "Steve" Webb and their families Leanna, Linda, Quentin, Joe Jr, Amiya, Stephanie, Trinty, his family he shared with Sandra, grandchildren, Elise, Elijah "Bubba," and Emilia and her son Jamaal,
Brian graduated from Dover High School in 1979. During his younger years he worked for Bayhealth Hospital, the Capital School District for a few years and finally at Dover Downs (Bally's) Casino for 20 years, where he retired as the Manager of Receiving. He enjoyed being physically fit. This desire led him into the arena of bodybuilding and cycling. During his younger years he was also a gifted dancer, this ability led to him being pursued by the famous Don Cornelius of Soul Train fame. He also enjoyed grilling, watching sports which included supporting his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. His love of sports included helping his friend Joe Carpenter coach kids on a youth football team. He talked about the kids all the time. He loved following Joe and Leanna's kids in their pursuit of different sports. He was an absolute movie fan and shared that interest with his friend Steve Webb. Brian loved his sister Sharon's Strawberry Cake, Ms Minnie's Chicken Salad, plus the Ten Commandments Movie (which he watched all four hours every year at Easter) and episodes of Judge Judy. He was the master of the remote, but he always watched "The Tonight show with Lester Holt" with Sandra. The weeknight was not complete without Lester saying "Good Night. Please take care of yourself and each other"
Above all things, Brian was a cherished friend, loving and dedicated family member.
In closing, we are grateful to the broader community of family and friends who stood by Brian during his time of resolve and strength. You offered steadfast encouragement, love, support, and assistance. Your presence not only comforted him but also enriched the lives of everyone involved in his care. It was through your collective strength and compassion that Brian found hope and resilience. Thank you for embodying the spirit of love, devotion, and friendship that defined his life.
The family would like to personally recognize the unwavering professionalism, dedication, and compassion of the Penn Medical Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplant Cardiovascular Medicine Division of the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center Staff. A special thank you to Dr. Paul Mather, Natalie Pierson, Dr. Mauer Biscotti, Dr. James Markmann, and Dr. Aditya Parikh.
And a special acknowledgement and appreciation to Ms. Sandra Downs from the Baines family. Her love for Brian ensured whatever he needed was given, regardless of the sacrifice. Which, on more than one occasion required daily trips from Baltimore to Delaware to Pennsylvania by train and/or car. We are eternally grateful.