David Willis Baker

David Willis Baker Jr., 68, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away at his home on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.          

Born on January 5, 1956, to the late David Willis Baker Sr. and Elizabeth Ann Elks Baker, David was known as “Buddy” to close friends and family in his hometown of Kinston. With a heartwarming love story, David married his high school sweetheart Eliza and together they built a beautiful life and family.

A skilled electrician by trade, David worked at Dupont for nearly three decades, with many of his years spent in the powerhouse. After retirement he and Eliza relocated to Newport on the coast, to care for Eliza’s parents. They found Parkview Baptist Church where they soon became dedicated members and made countless friends. When he was not spoiling his grandchildren, who lovingly referred to him as “Pop-Pop”, David’s favorite activity was fellowshipping with the “Smithfield’s BBQ gang”. 

Most of all, David was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a relentless friend. He adored Eliza and knew her blood sugar at all times. He cherished his boys and never missed one of their ball games. He never met a stranger, took the greatest joy in helping others, and was always there for his friends.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Eliza Ogelsby Baker; sons, Dr. David “Will” Willis Baker III and wife, Rebecca, of Kinston, NC, and Joshua Benjamin Baker and wife, Lauren, of Austin, TX; sister, Patty Baker McCain and husband, Andy, of Durham, NC; niece, Hannah Parrish and husband, Zac, of Fuquay-Varina, NC; and grandchildren, Addison Baker and Reese Baker of Kinston, NC, and Wilder Baker and Leo Baker of Austin, TX.

A funeral service to honor David’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 14th at Parkview Baptist Church in Morehead City, officiated by Rev. John Carswell. Interment will follow at Gethsemane Memorial Park in Newport. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service. For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed through his obituary page on Munden Funeral Home’s website.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.