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BORN
1940
DIED
2021
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Thomas Baker Obituary
May 16, 1940 - October 10, 2021
West Columbia, South Carolina - Thomas Alexander Baker, 81, died unexpectedly on October 10, 2021, at Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community, West Columbia, South Carolina. He was born on May 16, 1940, in Buffalo, New York, the son of Broughton Leonard Baker and Margaret Smith Baker.
Tom graduated from the Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School, receiving his high school diploma in 1966. Following graduation, he worked briefly for Thermal Engineering. He then enjoyed a long career as a Lab Technician for DHEC, retiring in 1999.
Tom had many interests. He was a lifelong member of the Boy Scouts and received numerous awards for his service as a participant in the Order of the Arrow. He was also a member of the Freemasons of South Carolina and the Cayce Moose Family Center in West Columbia, South Carolina. Tom was devoted to his church, Shandon Presbyterian of Columbia, where he belonged to a Sunday school class for Bible study and social events.
Tom is survived by his sister, Julianne Baker Scott of Albany, New York; nephews, Timothy Broughton Scott (Melissa) of Essex, Vermont and Theodore Andrew Scott (Laurie) of Round Lake, New York; as well as a great-nephew, Liam Broughton Scott also of Vermont. Tom loved his attentive family. He is also survived by his cousins, Linda Theus Hinson (Jack) of Charlotte, North Carolina, Walter Wyman Theus, Jr. (Catherine) of Columbia, South Carolina, and William Harrison Theus (Nancy) of Columbia, South Carolina. There are also eight younger cousins who adored his humor and spirit. A special acknowledgement is given to Caretta Gladden who lovingly cared for Tom for many years.
The graveside service for Tom will be held 11 o'clock Saturday, October 16th, at Elmwood Cemetery, 501 Elmwood Ave, Columbia, SC 29201 with Rev. Jenny McDevitt officiating. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.
Those who wish to remember Tom may make contributions to The Boy Scouts Indian Waters Council, 715 Betsy Drive #B6, Columbia, South Carolina 29210, Shandon Presbyterian Church, 607 Woodrow Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29205, or the Cayce Moose Family Center, #462, 1541 Old Dunbar Road, West Columbia, South Carolina 29172.
Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Baker
Tommy Howard
October 27, 2021
I knew Tommy Baker through Scouting and its adult leader Wood Badge program. I've been away from Columbia for many years and appreciate a friend and fellow Scouter letting me know that Tommy had died. He was a good man and I'm better for having known him. Blessings.
dorothy johnson
October 16, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Francis Person
October 14, 2021
I always called him Tommy we worked together At Dhec had great memories. Rest in Peace
Henry Hall
October 13, 2021
My first experience with Tom was in 1988 when I went through adult leader training. Tom taught us knots and how to pitch a tent. He was a wonderful instructor. Every time I used a taut line hitch I always think of Tom. In later years he was my troop committee chairman and closest adviser. He went on almost campout-often being the only other adult on the trip.
Any time I ever asked his advice he was always straightforward and would tell you that you made a mistake or that there was a better way.
Tom Baker lived and breathed Scout spirit every single day. God has blessed our lives through your life and example. Well done good and faithful servant.
Robert Sears
October 13, 2021
I will miss your good natured humor, sunny disposition, our conversations about sports and scouting and so much more. Until we meet again.
Velda Howard
October 12, 2021
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mr. Tommy. He was a very special person that I am honored to have known. His. Smiling face will be missed by anyone that knew him. Rest In Peace.
Art Seel
October 12, 2021
I will miss your smiling face Tommy, may God bless you.
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Shives Funeral Home - Trenholm Road Chapel7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC 29223
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