William Harry Baker

William Harry Baker, 94, of Grantsboro, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Harry lived a life of faith, service, and music that touched countless lives.

Harry faithfully attended church his entire life and was a member of Rock of Zion Original Free Will Baptist Church for the past 35 years. Harry served the Lord with his gift of music. He shared his love of music with others as a teacher, instilling in students the same joy of music that filled his own life. He also played piano for a local gospel group, the Master's Four Quartet, for several years.

Harry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force before beginning a long and meaningful career in lab technology. After early work as Medical Lab Technician at Johnson Memorial, he returned to St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bern and later set up the lab at the new Craven County Hospital in 1963, now known as CarolinaEast Medical Center. Known as “Dr. Harry” in the community, he had a natural way of caring for people and guiding them toward the help they needed. After leaving the hospital, he later worked in the lab departments at Texas Gulf, Texfi, and finally for U.S. Civil Service-Cherry Point. His kindness and wisdom were felt by all who crossed his path.

Outside of work and church, Harry found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was known for his love of building and repairing – if he had a nail in one hand, he usually had a paintbrush in the other. He delighted in tending to his garden, especially pampering his beloved roses and flowers. Most of all, he cherished time with his family, who will forever treasure his love and example.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, John Baker Sr, and Elma Powers Baker; his daughter, Paula Gay Baker; brothers, John Baker, Jr. and Vernon Baker; and sister, Ernie Pope.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of 68 years, Melba Baker; children, Donna Banks (Wesley Jr), Sandra Baker, Kevin Baker, Tommy Baker (Robin), and Linda Griffin; grandchildren, Wesley “Lee” Banks III (Kendall) and Michael Banks; and great-grandchildren, Liam, Rory and Remi Banks and Josephine Ford.

A memorial service will be held at Rock of Zion OFWB Church, with the Rev. Ray Lewis officiating on Saturday, September 6th beginning at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Amity Christian Church Cemetery with military honors.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Harry will be remembered for his deep faith, his passion for music and service to others, and the love he poured into his family and community.