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Joe Baker Obituary
Celebrating the Life of Joe Don Baker
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joe Don, a noted member of the Performing Arts Community, who left us on 5/7/2025 at the age of 89.
A Life Well-Lived
Born on February 12, 1936, Joe Don was a beacon of kindness and generosity. His intellectual curiosity made him a voracious reader, inspiring a great love of nature and animals, particularly cats. Throughout his life, Joe Don touched many lives with his warmth and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Early Years and Education
Joe Don spent his early years in Groesbeck, Texas, where he attended Groesbeck High School and excelled in Football and Basketball. His athletic skills led him to secure a scholarship at North Texas State College, where he joined the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and graduated in 1958 with a bachelor's degree in business administration. In 1994 he received the Distinguished Alumni award from his College, now renamed University of North Texas.
Professional Achievements
Following a two year period of service in the U.S. Army, Joe Don moved to New York City, where he studied at the Actor's Studio becoming a life member. During this time, he gained valuable acting experience performing in the lively NY Theater scene. Eventually, he moved to Los Angeles, where his acting career gradually took off. Starting with small television parts, he eventually progressed to major acting roles as leading man and later in life as a character actor. During his long career, until his retirement in 2012 he performed in 57 movies, starring in "Walking Tall", "Mitchell" and more. Additionally, he landed co-starring roles and supporting parts in other mayor projects, including "Charlie Varrick" and three "Bond" films. His film acting accolades include winning the Robert Altman Award for his role on "Mud" and nominations for the for the miniseries "George Wallace". He performed in numerous television productions, including a starring role in the popular series "Eischied" and an outstanding performance on the acclaimed British television production of "Edge of Darkness", which earned him a Best Actor nomination from the British Academy of Television.
Family and Friends
Joe Don's 11 year marriage produced no offspring. He is survived by relations in his native Groesbeck, who will forever cherish his memory. He is mourned by a small but very close circle of friends who will miss him eternally.
Funeral Service
A funeral service to honor Joe Don's life will be held on May 20, 2025, at Utter McKinley Mortuary, Mission Hills, California at 10:00 AM. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories, celebrating the extraordinary life he led.
Final Thoughts
As we say goodbye to Joe Don, we hold onto the memories and the love he shared with us. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit will always remain, a guiding light in the lives he touched. Rest in peace, Joe Don. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
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David Roach
July 27, 2025
I met Joe Don Baker @ a Groesbeck homecoming football game in the early 1970´s. He was kind & generous to the kids, like myself, that wanted to meet him.
Sue E
July 18, 2025
When I first saw this bigger than life man on TV, I knew immediately that I would follow his career! I thought he was great in Cape Fear, and the episodes he stood in for Carroll O´Connor; In the Heat of the Night! R.I.P. Mr. Baker
Chip Fitts
June 30, 2025
I REMEMBER WATCHING JOE DON BAKER PLAY SHERIFF BUFORD PUSSER IN THE FIRST WALKING TALL FILM AS WELL AS PLAYING A COP IN IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT DURING CARROLL O'CONNORS ABSENCE FROM THAT SHOW DUE TO O'CONNORS SURGERY AND RECOVERY PERIOD. VERY BELIEVABLE ACTOR. HE'LL BE MISSED GREATLY. R.I.P.
Sheriff Dan Johnson
June 15, 2025
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Patti Straker
June 6, 2025
Sitting in the back of a Movie Theater in 1973, not sure what to do after I graduated, I watched "Walking Tall".
I decided I was going to be like Bufford Pusser and save the world.
My Law Enforcement career was based on his betrayal of Pusser.
I was one of the first Female Police Officer's in New Bern, NC for 5 1/2 yrs. The first Female Intensive Probation/Parole Officer for the State of NC. An Instructor of BELT at Craven Community College for over 40/yrs. Unarmed Self Defence Instructor sent all over eastern NC to train not only Probation/Parole Officers, but Police Departments, Sheriff Departments and the National Guard. He portrayal of Sheriff Bufford Pusser decided my career path.
I hope I lived up to their outstanding lives!
WILLIAM SCOTT GIBSON
June 6, 2025
GREAT SOLDIER GREAT MAN GREAT ACTOR!
FIona van Deventer
May 31, 2025
Farewell to a legend. Sympathy to his family.
Herman Leuty Stayman, Jr
May 27, 2025
My memory of Joe Don was his beautiful Texas drawl, his easy going, confident demeanor and his presence of a man's man,,,,and a solid American. God Bless his memory and God Rest his soul.
Irene Kenny
May 27, 2025
I fell in love with Joe Don Baker after I saw him in The Outfit many years ago.
He was a great actor and he will always remain in my heart.
Love forever Irene from England.
Linda T.
May 26, 2025
Say what you want about MST3K.. but since seeing him in Mitchell and Final Justice- whenever I saw him in another movie Id yell out OMG! ITS JOE DON BAKER!! to which most never understood. But I did!! How could you NOT recognize or love him? Always stood out. RIP Joe Don Baker. You'll be missed
Pam Rogers
May 25, 2025
I just saw this and it broke my heart and saddened me to hear
I loved him and the movies all of the Walking Tall
He was an amazing actor
He was loved by so many and we will always have those memories
My deepest condolences and sympathy goes out to all of his family and friends
My thoughts and prayers goes out to you all
Kevin Hallisey
May 25, 2025
God Bless you Joe Don Baker as a teen I loved watching Walking Tall thank you your a great actor and person. God Bless!
Stephen Zee
May 24, 2025
I first saw Joe Don Baker on the original airing of the MST3K episode of Mitchell. Enjoyed his roles in Cape Fear, the Bond films, and the episodes of In The Heat Of The Night. Someone said it best that he was the best part of anything he was in. Thank you for the good memories.
Tom Da
May 23, 2025
The first role I saw Joe Don Baker was in an episode of Gunsmoke. It was easy to see the talent even then at a young age. Walking Tall is one of my favorites of all time, being based on a true story. Rest in Peace and may God bless you.
Bill Bowes
May 22, 2025
A great actor and cat lover, Rest in peace
Dennis Miresse
May 22, 2025
Rest well dear sir you deserve all the peace
Brenda Bray
May 21, 2025
So sorry for this great loss. I was a fan of his always. God bless his family and friends.
Cokie
May 21, 2025
He will be missed as Chief Jerry Karlin in Fletch or Luke Harper in "The Real People of Muddy Creek" for Bonanza
Kenneth Wayne Gentry
May 21, 2025
I will always remember you in walking tall, that roll inspired me to be a police officer! I joined the Navy in 1982 and served as Shore Patrol off and on until 1987! I eventually went through the police academy and became a deputy sheriff! You had several remarkable roles but Walking Tall was one that will be one that stands out and everyone will know, and remember as a stand alone movie that stands for so much. God Bless you!
Mr. Jr.
May 21, 2025
My condolences.
Billy D. Hollomon
May 20, 2025
RIP sir, thks for ghe memories...
Maria Torres
May 20, 2025
Mike Robinson
May 20, 2025
Watched all 3 Walking Tall movies today. The first with Joe was the absolute best. Thank You for the fine portrayal of a man that stood for justice in the face of corruption. RIP.......
Nancy Woodle
May 19, 2025
This is really a huge loss! I've been a fan of Joe Don Baker since I saw him in the movie Adam At Six A.M when I was about 8 years old and liked him even more than ever when I saw Walking Tall a few years later. You're missed by more than friends and family my deepest heartfelt condolences to your family members and friends as well as other fans.
Maria Torres
May 19, 2025
There are no words to explain how much I will miss you. You were the first person to ever hand me a Christmas present, and the one who was by my side still caring for me after mom left. It was an honor to call you my step dad. Thank you for always loving my mom and her kids, I know she is waiting for you on the other side with a ton of kitties to cuddle. I love you Joe don, thank you for being a part of my life
JK
May 19, 2025
He was a great guy who was kind and generous. I will never forget him and feel honored to have known him. Rest in peace Joe Don, you will be deeply missed by many. May God give his family and friends strength and comfort during this difficult time.
MB
May 19, 2025
Condolences to family and friends. I remember his role in, `Walking Tall´. Sorry to hear of his death.
Robert Douglas Sillmon Jr.
May 19, 2025
RIP Brother
christian baker
May 19, 2025
R.I.P. joe don or cousin joe if you were related to me thanks for the memories and the characters you played
Randall Mitchell
May 19, 2025
Thank for so many fond memories. Your films will forever keep you in our hearts.
J.M. McDougal
May 19, 2025
It is a sad moment for me to hear this , Joe Don and I worked together on a film in '95 '" The Grass Harp ", for 6 weeks , became good friends , had some laughs together , rest in Peace Joe Don , see you again one day
John Dougherty
May 18, 2025
Sincere condolences to Mr. Baker's family & friends. Joe Don gave us so many enjoyable moments on the screen & to manu of us, almost a cult fandom. A life & a career well done. Thank you JDB!
Barbara Abbott
May 18, 2025
We are from groesbeck and our family followed your career and enjoyed your tv shows and your movies may God keep your family and Friends safe you will be missed Barbara
Ann Marie Lundgren
May 17, 2025
Rest in peace. It was a privilege to stand up together as Godparents to Megan and I will always have such fond memories of your laughter and how kind "The Godfather" was to her family and his prodigious work. Thinking of his friends and family.
Ginger Roberts Fritz
May 17, 2025
It hurt my heart that my friend Joe Don passed away. But thankful he was able to go to his home first. I´ll be praying for you all to have a peace that surpasses all understanding. Sending love and hugs always. RIP my friend.
Chris Martinez
May 17, 2025
JDB, you were one of a kind! Class act.
Ellis H Tipton Jr
May 17, 2025
God bless all who loved this increadable talent, you will be missed fine sir.
Gary Ellis
May 17, 2025
Joe Don was a spectacular Actor
John angelora
May 17, 2025
May you rest in peace Mr. Joe Don Baker. We will always appreciate the gifts of acting you gave us. It made us happy. God bless you. Condolences to your family and friends.
Bryan Laferriere
May 16, 2025
Rest in peace, sir. A true legend..
Lisa Bergholtz
May 16, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Joe Don's passing. He was a very talented actor and from what I have read, a very good man in person. His friends and family are in my prayers. R.I.P.
Craig H.
May 16, 2025
Thanks for the great memories in acting and in life. You will be missed for things you have done. I watched walking tall many many times. That´s how good you were in that movie. Rest in peace, and may God be with his family in these times and celebrate a wonderful life.
Carol Hernandez
May 16, 2025
You will be miss my friend glad to of met you back in the 70's You were a great actor You were such a nice man condolences to the family
Michael Cope
May 16, 2025
One of my favorite actors of all time!! He certainly did WALK TALL!!
Jesse Green
May 16, 2025
Rest in peace Joe Don. Thank you for all your hard work over the years.
Thomas Washington
May 16, 2025
Excellent Actor. Walking Tall is a Legendary Movie. We ought to learn to walk all for what we believe in, I´m a Jesus believer and Walking Tall means walking in His footsteps. Peace be multiplied.
Jody Shawn Brachman
May 16, 2025
I'm good u I was writing to you to give my condolences to you and your family etc rip I loved his movies etc he seemed like a nice guy I will.miss him. So. No rush take care
Matt D.
May 16, 2025
My sincerest and most heartfelt condolences to the Baker family on Joe Don´s passing. Back in 1978 I saw Joe Don in "Checkered Flag or Crash" as the lead character named Walk Away Madden and he was superb in that action-comedy-drama. RIP Joe Don and thank you for all the wonderful memories.
Deborah Dyess
May 16, 2025
So very sorry to hear this! He was an awesome actor
Joe Don's Best Friend
May 16, 2025
I'd like to offer a few remembrances of Joe Don--shared here in hopes of honoring the kind if man he was and carrying a little of his spirit forward. Though the Walking Tall actor is often remembered as a tough guy on screen, in life Joe Don was thoughtful, fiercely independent, deeply kind and honest. What he said, he meant. That kind of integrity is, sadly, increasingly rare in our world. Joe Don was a steady presence in our lives, loyal, generous, and always quietly looking out for others. His generosity reached far beyond close friends or family. For years, he supported Native American schoolchildren, wildlife preservation efforts, and helped those who often go unseen. He brought feed for the squirrels and birds on the golf course, adored cats
--his own and those without homes--and never hesitated to take the strays to the vet for care. To Joe Don, every life was precious. Sharing a bit of who he was feels like a way of continuing what he started.. He was a deep thinker who loved reading. Even the night he was taken to the ER, he carried a book with him, still learning, still thinking, still being himself. I will miss our many conversations about life, spirituality, current affairs, the universe, and the mystery of it all. Joe Don was someone I could talk to about anything and everything. In these past few years. We often called each other "my best friend" and each time, he'd seal it with a firm handshake and a gentle smile.
Carolyn Burgess
May 16, 2025
Such an excellent actor. And a cat lover like myself. God bless
Carl Pusser
May 16, 2025
God speed my friend, remember the times in Tn when you were filming Walking Tall. I know Uncle Buford was proud.
Carl Pusser and Family
AJ
May 16, 2025
JOE DON WAS A FANTASTIC ACTOR. HE HAD MEMORABLE PERFORMANCES IN BOTH MOVIES AND TELEVISION. HE WAS OUTSTANDING AS EISCHIED IN THE TELEVISION SERIES. JOE DON SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED MANY AWARDS AND RECOGNITION FOR HIS MYRAID OF EXCELLENT ROLES. HE WILL FOREVER BE REMEMBERED AS THE BEST!!! AJ, AUSTERLITZ, NY
John Taapken
May 16, 2025
You were a Awesome Actor, l really liked your part you played in "Walking Tall" Rest Easy and go fly high with the Angels.
Greg Anderson
May 16, 2025
Joe Don was truly a one-of-a-kind actor. Thanks for so many wonderful hours of entertainment, from "Walking Tall" to "The Pack" and so many more. Rest in peace big man.
Brandon Harris
May 16, 2025
I always enjoyed Joe's movies. He was a fantastic actor. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He led a life well lived.
Michael Lenhart
May 16, 2025
We loved you Joe Don Baker.
Sean P. Hunter
May 16, 2025
When I was a teenager in the 1970s Joe Don Baker was one of my favorite actors. From Walking Tall to Charley Varick and countless other roles, if Mr. Baker was in the movie, you could be sure it would be an exciting movie.
It saddens me to hear of his passing and I give my condolences to his family and friends.
Rick Drew
May 16, 2025
Although I did not know you personally, I loved your parts in different movies. In every part you played, you stood out as an outstanding actor. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. You will always be remembered and loved.
Tammy Pacenza
May 16, 2025
Rest in peace! Thank you for all the times you entertained me during my lifetime. I grew up on your films. Prayers to your loved ones.
Ryan McClelland
May 16, 2025
You were my hero. Rest In Peace Joe Don.
Joe
May 16, 2025
We love you <3 <3 <3
gilbert lara davila
May 15, 2025
i first remember this man in cape fear.. whether it was a broadway play, cop or cowboy joe don played it his way, and he did it original,never did he copy anyones style.. i can respect that, his work on shows like gunsmoke and bonanza were also very good, then later i saw walking tall and fun movies like joy sticks.. classics.. a dying breed, we love your work and appreciate what you left us sir.. rest easy a texas legend and godspeed.
Thomas Jackson Jr
May 15, 2025
From Fletch to the Bond films and more you entertained millions . Thank you Mr. Baker for your years of enjoyment in film. May you rest comfortably in peace sir.
susan nance
May 15, 2025
Thank you for entertaining me so many times!!
Earl jenkind
May 15, 2025
Joe Don baker one of my all-time favorite actors.but loved him most I walking tall.i can't count the number of times I watched it.rest in peace bufford pusser
Allan
May 15, 2025
Rest in peace Mr Baker
Brenda Fowler
May 15, 2025
RIP Mr.Baker. You were one of my favorite actors and I'm certain you will be missed. Walk Tall on your way through the gates of Heaven.
Jim K
May 15, 2025
I saw Walking Tall as a teenager. That movie made a lasting impression on me. RIP Joe!
Tom
May 15, 2025
I saw you in Charlie Varrick....You should have won an Oscar for your betrayal of `Molly´....you walked away with the picture easily...R.I.P
great actor...
Marshall DeWitt
May 15, 2025
What wonderful success this man achieved. Condolences to all.
Brenda Pierce
May 15, 2025
R.I.P MR BAKER
Boot Sessoms
May 15, 2025
I followed Joe Don Baker´s career but, if I had to pick one it would have to be Walking Tall, I´m 58 years old and still watch it when I can. He brought some great acting to whatever he appeared in for sure. R.I.P my friend
Boot Sessoms
USMC Veteran
Bryan A
May 15, 2025
RIP Mitchell.
Cathy Ivie
May 15, 2025
I found out that we were 6th cousins. I tried to reach out to no avail. Joe Don & my great grandmother looked alot alike. Rest in Peace Joe Don. I loved your movies and I wish that I could have met yoy.
Jane A.Cox
May 15, 2025
Walking tall was a favorite of mine. You´re played the part well. Thank you for sharing your talent and leaving memories behind.
Barbara Stewart
May 15, 2025
God's Angel has come home!! He will surely be missed in the film industry and all his viewers will miss him dearly. Prayers for the families..... Barbara Stewart
Mary Roy Jeffers
May 15, 2025
Remembering Joe Don Baker. A very handsome man. Born in Texas as was Tommy Lee Jones. I enjoyed seeing you in many movies. I can´t name my favorite movie but Cape Fear with Robert DeNiro was one of the best.
You were also great in Criminal Law with Gary Oldman and a movie with George Kennedy. You will be sorely missed .
Mary Roy Jeffers
Raj S Maddali
May 15, 2025
I saw walking tall .Iam so captivated by this gem of an actor and liked him immensely and NOW I learned with sadness . He did walk among us tall befittingly and will be missed . May God give peace to the family and his soul rest in peace . Om shanthi . Be peace upon you left behind .
Nancy Ruiz
May 15, 2025
Truly nice man that minic me when I looked at him during "To Kill A Cop" and he let me take a pic tooprayers go out to the family
Linda Hood
May 15, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about his Passing away I have always followed his acting Career. I first saw him in Walking Tall and was disappointed when he didn´t act in part two. Then saw some movies he starred in but, I really like him In the Heat of the Night....
So he will never be forgotten My sincere condolences to his friends and family
Garry Schaffer
May 15, 2025
Thank you for touching so many hearts.
Kathy Robichaud
May 15, 2025
Condolences to Joe Don's family & friends. Walking tall movies were a favorite of my dads, we watched them together. Farewell to a most beloved actor.
Debra Eberly
May 15, 2025
A great actor I know hes in heaven rejoicing with Jesus -Debra Eberly /fan
jack propps
May 15, 2025
Such a gifted Actor , he had as great acting chops as any pacino, caan, duvall, de niro, In my opinon top 10 best actors born in the 30s who starred in 70s 80s 90s, RIP SIR THANKS
GJ Cee (Australia)
May 15, 2025
His playing of Darius Jedburgh has left a lasting impression me. It was a work of art. Thank you, Joe Don Baker.
Mitzi Webb
May 15, 2025
Rest now Joe! You mean a lot to those you never met.
I have watched your movies and enjoyed your talent.
Mitzi
JOHNNY MATHIS
May 15, 2025
MY MY MY MY MITCHELL....
Tony Spirito
May 15, 2025
Karen McFarland
May 15, 2025
Thank you Don & Family, I am an old soul and I really loved the Walking Tall movies, your memory will live on forever. God bless the family and thank you. A Fan 4 ever, Karen McFarland.
Raymond carbry
May 15, 2025
edge of darkness what a performance,stole the whole series wonderful!
Joann Wiener
May 15, 2025
Joe Don Baker was an awesome actor. I pray that he knew Jesus as his Savior. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends
Julie D.
May 15, 2025
RIP Sir! You were a great actor and will be missed.
From a Cat Lover in Indiana!
Kelly Bursley
May 15, 2025
Loved you in Fletch!Rest in peace.
Nick
May 15, 2025
A great man who would never know the lifes he inspired. His believable roles that he potrayed so well inspired generations of people. Joe Don Baker was a rock star in my book! RIP and one day i will see you in heven.
Matthew Buck
May 15, 2025
R.I.P. Joe Don Baker, I am a Huge Fan of his work and as a Wonderful person an Actor never had a chance on meeting him but I would Loved to and he will be very, MISSED By his Fans and Friends and Family and he is really Loved by so, many And he is with Our Lord God Almighty and Carroll O'Connor and watching 9ver all of us... Love and Hugs to the Family and to Mr. Joe Don Baker From, Your Biggest Fan Matthew Buck From Shelby ohio 44875
C.M.
May 15, 2025
Never got to meet him, but he was my Grandpas cousin and I heard many stories of them growing up in Groesbeck.
Randall Franks
May 15, 2025
Remembering an fellow actor from my In the Heat of the Night family.
Thank you for encouraging me in my acting and music! Rest in Peace to one of my Uptegrove Cousins.
Randall Franks
"Officer Randy Goode"
In the Heat of the Night
Cindy Hall
May 15, 2025
To Mr. Baker's family and friends. I had always enjoyed watching him on tv and my husband and I were thrilled when we got to meet him at our friend's home the summer we came to visit Los Angeles. He was so nice and fun to be around. He will be deeply missed.
Linda Alexander
May 15, 2025
My deepest condolences to family and friends of this very talented man. Versatile and believable in the myriad of roles he achieved. We had a mutual friend, but I never met This amazing man. He did not receive the acclaim he was due as an actor. walk Tall snd Rest in Peace
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