John Allen Baker, Jr.

John Allen Baker, Jr. was a native of Nashville, TN, where he was the firstborn of the late Marion Gore Baker and John Allen Baker, Sr. on Saturday, December 30, 1950. On Saturday, April 6, 2024, he transitioned peacefully from this earthly life to eternal life at The Waters of Cheatham, Ashland City, TN.

John graduated from Central High School in 1969 and attended Tennessee State University until he enlisted in the United States Army in 1972.

John was united in holy matrimony to Joan A. Bowers on November 28, 1975; two children were born to this union. Joan was the Love of his life for 49 years.

John, being a kind and gentle person, met no strangers. John’s passion was History, and he loved to talk to anyone who would listen to his dissertation on American History.

After retiring from the United States Army in 1990, he was employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a VA Police Officer until he retired as a Lieutenant in 2012. During his career at the VA, he received numerous accolades.

John was christened at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church and joined Meharry Boulevard Church of God.

John leaves to cherish his memory: devoted wife, Joan Bowers Baker, daughter Erin L. Baker and son John Allen Baker, III, granddaughter Laylah A. Coleman, sisters Renee (Michael) Howard and Yolette (Alex) Armstrong, brother in laws Jerry Bowers and Jerome Bowers, sister in laws Mary (Ralph) Armstrong, Shirley Stallworth, Ruth Epperson, Constance Morris, and Linda Bowers, devoted cousin Roderick Kelly, godchildren Jada Carroll, Isabella & Messiah, loving friends Joe Carroll, Bennie Roberson, Gregg Cumbo, and Frank Farrell and a host of nieces, nephews, and loving family and dear friends.

Thanks to Waters of Cheatham, Gentiva Hospice, VA Hospital, and Ruth Epperson.