Milton Gene Baker

Milton Gene Baker, 82, of Coats entered heaven's joys on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025.

Gene was born on December 12th, 1943 near Four Oaks, NC, to James Baker and Betty Bass. He was one of 7 children. Gene completed the 6th grade after which he spent his early years assisting his parents picking cotton. During his early adulthood, Gene moved to Indiana; and it was there that he eventually gave his heart to Christ, his Savior. From then on, he spent his days careful to maintain a humble, repentant heart.

He would regularly visit North Carolina and it was during one of these visits that he was introduced to his first love, Ada Pauline Odom, and they went for a date. While on a date, Gene's joking earned him a playful punch in the arm from Ms. Pauline, but this quick strike proved to have struck his heart. Gene was smitten as he returned to Indiana. It wasn't too long before he moved back to North Carolina to be with Pauline. They went on a few more dates before they decided to wed and on March 16th, 1966, he and Ms. Pauline headed to Dillon, SC, to become Mr. and Mrs. Baker. Together, they had 3 daughters, Tammy, Beverly, and Crystal. They also had an additional child on the heavenside.

When coming back to North Carolina, Gene took a job working with Weldon Byrd as a tile installer. He worked with Mr. Byrd for many years before eventually opening his own business, Baker Tile, with a storefront in downtown Dunn, NC. Gene's business was highly successful and he continued this work until his retirement.

After the loss of his wife, Pauline, Gene and Ms. Ruth began seeing each other and on February 14th, 2003, the two were wed. He and Ruth enjoyed spending their time traveling and camping, as well as with family. They were married 22 years, until the time of his passing.

Gene Baker was a spiritual man who loved the Lord and his family, ensuring they always had what they needed. He never missed one night of prayer. He also enjoyed traveling and camping, as well as renovating campers, RVs, and various vehicles. Gene also always enjoyed playing the guitar. Both his spirituality and his musicality have served as a legacy handed down to his descendants.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 32 years, Pauline, and by his parents, James and Betty Baker, as well as his siblings, Luby, Buck, Mozelle, Kenneth, Robert, and Jimmy. He is also preceded by his daughters Tammy and Crystal, as well as one other child and also one great-grandchild.

Mr. Baker leaves behind his wife of 22 years, Ruth, and his daughter Beverly (Devon) Avery. He also leaves behind his two granddaughters, Amber (Terry) Streets and Kristie Avery. Finally, he leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Raelyn Streets, Ayla Streets, Dani Streets, and Terry Streets IV.

Services will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at the Full Gospel Tabernacle Church at 3661 Hwy 55, Dunn, NC. Visitation is at 11am, Funeral is at 12 noon with burial after at 1:30 pm at Hillcrest Cemetery in Newton Grove, NC.

Dunn Funeral Home of Erwin is honored to serve the Milton Gene Baker family.