Donald Richard Baker

Donald Richard Baker, born January 13, 1947, in Piave, Mississippi, passed away at his home in Southaven, Mississippi, in the close company of his loving family on November 26, 2025. An exemplary man of character, Donald lived a purposeful life characterized by his unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

Donald was a hard worker with high internal standards made evident throughout his life. He often held the highest rank of any group in which he was involved, as evidenced by his accomplishments during childhood (Eagle Scout) and adulthood, when he was chosen as Class President of the graduating classes for both his high school and nursing school. His educational pursuits reflected his belief in lifelong learning and personal development. A proud alumnus of the University of Arkansas, Donald followed a Bachelor’s degree with a Nursing degree from East Arkansas Technical College and a Master’s from the University of Memphis. His lengthy career as a healthcare professional began at Crittenden Memorial Hospital in West Memphis, Arkansas. It culminated with his position as Administrative Supervisor of Nursing at LeBonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was employed for 24 years.

Donald’s contributions to this country were honored with a Bronze Star for his service in the Signal Corps during the Vietnam War.

Donald’s family is grateful for a storehouse of memorable quotes and physical reminders of his full and happy life. He enjoyed shopping, especially for good deals, and amassed an impressive collection of clocks and practical gadgets. He often bought multiples of things and gifted the best finds to family members. He also had a special fondness for music, particularly country and gospel genres, and was known to break out the karaoke machine when company was over. He found joy in building a home, maintaining a meticulously kept yard, and indulging his love for travel. He was particularly captivated by the landscapes of the West, a sentiment that he has passed on to his youngest child. In his latter days, he enjoyed home improvement projects, historical documentaries, and caring for his grandchildren.

A beloved husband to his devoted spouse of nearly 50 years, Norma Baker, Donald is survived by their children, Donna (James) Troyanowski and Kristina (Hal) Mitchell, as well as six cherished grandchildren: Madeline, Clara, Athalie, Juliana, Ottilie, and Walter. He also leaves behind siblings Larry (Sharon) Baker, Shirley (Erich) Williams, and Cheryl Baker, along with a host of other family and friends whose lives he touched with his kindness and warmth.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, John Buford, Jr. and Zelline, and his brother Kenny.

Perhaps Donald’s greatest legacy was the unebbing, tireless, and bountiful love he gave to his family; he took quiet pride in this graciousness, considering it a duty and often an honor. Donald was also a man of deep faith. Raised in the Baptist tradition, his convictions remained strong throughout his life, serving as a guiding force in all he did. Donald Richard Baker’s legacy of faith, hard work, family devotion, and integrity will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.