Jim G. Baker

BAKER, Jim G.Age 75 of Nashville, TN. October 5, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Sudie Callaway-Baker; children, Daniel (Mary Ann) Baker, Linda (Jim) Phifer and Timothy (Tambra) Baker; grandchildren, Audrey, Emily, Daniel, Hannah, Elliott, Lilly and Jimmy; mother, Audrey Draper; sister, Marie Spooner (Don), Las Vegas, NV; many loved nieces and nephews. Jim was born July 26, 1933 in Eldridge, AL and grew up in Flint, MI, before moving to Nashville in 1963 after serving in the US Army. A long-time professional musician, he was a gifted steel guitar player as a youth, and later became an accomplished country music Dobro and pedal steel guitar performer in Nashville. Jim played the Grand Ole Opry throughout the early part of his career and was a member of the Mel Tillis Statesiders Band in the early 70's. He played on numerous country albums and was in steady demand as a steel session player. Ernie Ashworth, Mel Tillis, Jim and Jessie, Bill Carlisle, Roy Drusky, Justin Tubb, and Leroy Van Dyke, are a few of the talented musicians Jim played with over his career. He also played with many other well-known and unknowns, performed on shows in Branson, MO and traveled across the USA and overseas entertaining the U.S. Military. One visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9th, 2008 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., with a Memorial service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society. WEST HARPETH FUNERAL HOME, 6962 Charlotte Pike, (615) 352-9400.