James Andrew Baker Jr.

James A. Baker Jr., 77, of New Kent, Virginia, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2024. Born on March 30, 1947, in Cabarrus County/Concord, North Carolina, he was the son of James A. Baker Sr. and Kate T. Baker. He is survived by his sister, Frankie Gosa, daughter Kimberley (Ted), grandchildren TJ (Lindsey) and Hannah Kate, nieces and nephews, and other wonderful family and friends. Jim graduated from Wincoff High School in Concord, North Carolina, in 1965 and pursued further education at Forsyth Tech School in Winston-Salem, where he earned a degree in Diesel Truck Maintenance and Repair in 1967. Following his education, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps from September 1967 to September 1971, serving honorably in Vietnam. His military accolades include the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Rifle Marksman Badge, and Air Medal with Bronze Number 1. In November 1970, he married the love of his life, Bobbi Baker, with whom he shared 50 wonderful years before her passing in June 2021. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Kimberley in July 1971, who later married Ted Milby. James cherished his role as a grandfather to two beloved grandchildren, TJ (Lindsey) and Hannah Kate. A resident of Varina in Henrico, Virginia for a long time, Jim had a passion for buying and selling collectibles and antiques with his wife and enjoyed the company of his dogs and pot-bellied pigs through the years. He was an avid sports fan, particularly devoted to the Dallas Cowboys, and found joy in reading and watching classic westerns and movies. He retired in 2011 after many years as a forklift mechanic while carrying multiple credentials and specialty trainings. After the loss of his wife, Jim moved to New Kent to be closer to his family. Jim, also known as Daddy or Paw Paw, leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and dedication to his family and his country. His family will receive visitors on Sunday November 3, 2024, from 4-6 pm at Vincent Funeral Home in Providence Forge and on Monday, November 4, 2024, from 10-11 am at Corinth Baptist Church in New Kent. A memorial service will be held to honor Jim’s life on November 4, 2024, at Corinth Baptist Church at 11:00 am. A committal service will be held at Williamsburg Memorial Park Cemetery at 2:00 pm. The family suggests donations be made to the New Kent Humane Society or the American Heart Association. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal. Until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand. Sent from my iPhone

James Andrew Baker Jr.

March 30, 1947 - October 22, 2024