Dave Baker

Dave Baker, a cherished father, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, in Odessa, Texas. Born on January 13, 1937, in Wharton, Ohio, Dave's life was a testament to his unwavering faith, love for his family, and dedication to his country and community.
After bravely serving in the United States Navy aboard the USS Cascade AD 16 from 1955-1959, Dave continued his commitment to service as a security guard for the Andrews Independent School District for ten years. His dedication to his community and those he protected was evident to all who knew him.
A devout Christian, Dave was a long-time member of Calvary Baptist Church of Andrews, where he also served as a deacon. His deep faith was a guiding light in his life, and he found joy in fellowship and service within his church community.
Dave's family was the center of his world. He is survived by his loving daughters, Patricia Ann Gilliland and husband Joel, Nancy Simon and husband Brian, and Angie Lightner and husband Carl; sons George Clark and wife Jinny, Eddie Clark and wife Debbie, and John Clark and wife Susan; and sister Jane Ogg and husband Bill. His legacy also lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Rachel Love (Sean), Joshua Gilliland (Emily), Jonathan Gilliland (Stephanie), Rebekah Coats (Nathan), Brian Simon (Emily), Clinton Simon (Abi), Cassie Kvapil (Ray), Demetri Simon, Tiergan Simon, George Clark (Sarah), Brandon Clark (Krista), Ginger Jones (Michael), Heather Jones (Jonathan), Chris Clark, Courtney Clark, and Summer Benton (Marty), along with forty-one great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving family members.
Reunited in death with his parents, Allen Amos Baker and Fairy Eva Orwick Baker; his first wife, Joan Baker; second wife, Faye Fields Baker; and siblings John, Wayne, Frank, Charles, Freddie, Kathryn, Eva, Gail, and Judy.
Dave also had a passion for the Permian Basin Honor Flight team. After experiencing a flight himself, he volunteered with the organization, sharing his time and energy to honor fellow veterans. His hobbies included gardening, where his green thumb brought beauty to his surroundings, and woodworking, where his skilled hands created lasting memories. A lover of travel, Dave explored new places, always with a sense of adventure and curiosity. Dave also collected baseball cap and shoes which his daughter Patricia inherited as her shoe collection, rivals his own.
An avid griller, Dave was known for his barbecue skills, especially his ribs, which were a family favorite. His daughters often joked that if he wanted to see them, all he had to do was mention he was grilling ribs, and they would be there.
Dave Baker's life was one of purpose and joy. His impact on his family, friends, and community will be felt for generations to come. As we celebrate his life and mourn his passing, we hold onto the memories and values he has instilled in each of us.
A visitation will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025, from five until seven o'clock in the evening at McNett Funeral Home in Andrews. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Calvary Baptist Church in Andrews at ten o'clock in the morning with burial following at Andrews West Cemetery.