George Andrew Baker

George Andrew Baker died February 10, 2025 at age 86. He was born in Norfolk, VA to Grace Cannias and Theodore Baker. He attended Maury High School and the College of William and Mary. Though George was a Norfolk native, his family also owned a beach cottage on 64th street where he spent countless hours in the sand and back in Sea Shore State Park.
His parents, who were Greek immigrants, started a confectionary business in the Ghent section of Norfolk and in 1919 formed a second business called Twin City Tobacco Company. At the age of 17, George joined his father in the business and began what was to become his life's career.
The 1960s were very exciting for George. In 1964, he met the love of his life, Mary Scott Whitehead on a blind date arranged by her college roommate. They were married in 1966, in Scotty's hometown of Radford, Virginia. They happily settled in VA Beach to raise their family. During this time, George opened a second store location which later evolved into Bakers Fine Jewelry & Gifts. He worked for over 65 years for his family business until he retired in his early 80s. The business remains in the family and has been open for more than 100 years.
George was universally loved and respected in the community. He had a warm and fun personality that kept generations of families coming back in for shopping and conversation. He was a true and faithful friend. Affectionately called Georgie by many, he was known to be out on the dance floor and the life of a party. George had a profound appreciation for the arts and was a talented artist. He loved his trips to NYC, Greece and a more recent trip to Paris where he enjoyed being in such a beautiful place with his family. He was always ready to play backgammon, sang loudly to the oldies, and cherished his time spent with his children.
George served in the Coast Guard and the Reserves. He was active in the Virginia Beach Exchange Club, was a member of the Princess Anne Country Club, and attended Galilee Episcopal Church.
He was predeceased by his parents, two of his brothers, Theodore Baker Jr. and Paul C. Baker. He is survived by his three children Ann Tredway (Rick), Mary Scott, and John and a brother, Byron A. Baker; nieces Emily, Jennifer, and Anne.
There will be a Celebration of Life service for both Scotty and George at Galilee Church 3928 Pacific Ave, April 4th at 11:00AM, A reception will follow the service at the church. A live-stream of the service can be viewed at www.galileechurch.net.