John R. Baldwin

On April 28th, John Russell Baldwin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, unexpectedly passed away at 76 years young. John was born in Andalusia, Alabama on March 28, 1947 and resided in Escambia County, Florida for 74 years. He graduated from Escambia High School and later earned his Master's in Criminal Justice from Troy State University, minoring in Psychology. John served in the United States Air Force from 1966-1970, and continued his service in the Army National Guard until 1972. He joined the Pensacola Police Department in 1972 where he held roles in many departments including Investigations and Tact Squad, among others. John was active in the Fraternal Order of Police and was an integral part of forming the Field Training Officer program. He retired in 1991 as a Sergeant after 19 years of service. John then opened a private investigation firm and worked as an investigator until 2012. He enjoyed camping and fishing, fellowship with his Saturday morning coffee crew buddies, and spending time with his family, especially his grandsons who brought him great joy. John was a spiritual man who was devoted to many church activities at Hillcrest Baptist Church where he was a member.
John is survived by his wife of almost 31 years, Brenda Cox Baldwin, his daughter, Michelle Baldwin Steadham (Michael) and grandsons, Spencer O'Neil Steadham and Gavin O'Connor Steadham. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Bertha Baldwin, his sister, Betty Baldwin, his grandparents and many Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins.
The family will receive friends May 6th at Pensacola Memorial Gardens from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. with Dr. Charles S. Mitchell officiating. Interment will
follow in Pensacola Memorial Gardens. Arrangements entrusted to Pensacola Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. < Back to Obituaries