Franklin Calvin Baker

Franklin Calvin Baker, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on September 2, 1932, in Buffalo, Oklahoma, Franklin was a man of remarkable character and enduring spirit, whose life was defined by love, dedication, and service to his family and community.
Franklin was the son of Irvin Phillip Baker and Faye Lucille Love. He grew up in a home filled with the values of hard work and integrity, lessons that would guide him throughout his life. His commitment to family was profound, evident from an early age, and it blossomed into a lifelong passion. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Doris Belcher Baker, who he married in 1955 and who passed away in 2010. They shared a deep love and partnership that shaped their family for decades. He was also preceded by his son, Frank Baker, Jr., and his grandson, Wyatt Williford, along with his brothers, Phil, Jasper, Tommy Baker, and sister, Nadine Marts.
In 2014, Franklin found love again with his second wife, Evangeline Christina Brady Baker, who stood by him until his passing in 2025. Together, they embraced life with joy and gratitude, creating new memories while cherishing those from the past.
Franklin was a dedicated family man, a smart and talented businessman who established Quality Signs, Inc. in Houston in 1973. His entrepreneurial spirit flourished until his retirement in 1998, when he turned over the reins to his sons and son-in-law. He also built and managed Market Street Business Center until its sale in December 2022. Franklin's professional life was marked by a commitment to excellence and a determination to provide for his family.
Beyond his professional achievements, Franklin served his country as a U.S. Navy veteran during the Korean conflict, embodying the values of service and sacrifice. His commitment to his community extended beyond his business endeavors. He coached Pony League Baseball in Jacinto City for ten years, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many young athletes. Franklin was a deacon at Second Baptist Church in Jacinto City and the Calvary Baptist Church in northeast Houston, where his faith and dedication to his church family showcased his unwavering belief in the importance of community and fellowship.
Franklin's passions included hunting, fishing, and all outdoor activities, particularly cherished trips to the family ranch in Elkhart, TX. These pursuits brought him joy and allowed him to connect with nature and his loved ones. He was known for his hearty laughter and the way he lit up a room with his presence.
He is survived by his loving wife, Christina; daughter Cindy Williford and her husband Marlin; son Ralph Baker; and grandchildren Vallerie Baker, Matthew Baker, John Baker, Wade Williford, and Whitney Williford Berzins and her husband Philip. Each of these individuals carries a piece of Franklin's spirit and values, ensuring that his legacy continues to thrive.
Franklin's funeral service will be held on January 29, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Calvary Baptist Church, with officiant Rev. Jene Conwell leading the service. Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate the life of a man who touched so many lives with his kindness, faith, and love.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for your thoughts and prayers to be with them during this difficult time, remembering Franklin as a dedicated family man, a committed professional, and a faithful servant of God. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Franklin Calvin Baker, please visit our floral store.