Jimmie Baker

Jimmie Ray Baker, 83, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2024, at his home in Briggs, Texas. Born on March 4, 1941, in Dallas, Texas, Jim was the youngest of seven children to Albert Claude Baker and Lydia Luvee Drumm. He grew up on a farm just outside of Dallas, where the family raised chickens and tomatoes, instilling in him the value of hard work and the simple joys of rural life.

Jim demonstrated leadership from an early age, serving as Commander of his ROTC Unit at South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas, Texas, graduating in 1959. After high school, he pursued a pre-med education at North Texas State University in Denton, Texas. Following in the footsteps of his father and older brothers, he became a skilled linotype operator.

After college, Jim met Ruby Beatrice Hayslip at a bowling alley in Garland, Texas—a chance encounter that led to a lifetime of love. They married on November 12, 1964, and shared 49 wonderful years together, raising their four children—Bill, Teresa, Wayne, and Jerry—before Ruby’s passing in 2013. Years later, Jim and Ruby combined their talents and entrepreneurial spirit to start their own typesetting company in Austin, Texas, in 1982, building a successful business together.

Jim also had a distinguished career as the Officer-in-Charge and later as Postmaster of Briggs and Tao, Texas, a position he proudly held for 25 years, where he was known for his dedication, integrity, and service to the community.

A devoted member of Mahomet Christian Church, Jim’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He had a deep love for the outdoors and was an avid hunter, finding peace and joy in nature and sharing his passion with his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his sister-in-law Faye Baker of Houston, Texas, daughter-in-law Mary Lee of Buda, Texas, daughter Teresa Cook and her husband, Mack Cook of Briggs, Texas, and his son Jerry Baker and his wife LeeAnn of Spicewood, Texas, and son Wayne Baker of Boulder, Colorado. He leaves behind seven grandchildren Barry, Bill, Kristin, Charlie, Trevor, Haley and Karen. 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren who will always remember their "Pawpaw" with love and affection. Jim also cherished his extended family, including numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he held fondly in his heart.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on September 6, 2024 at 10am at Dillingham Cemetery in Briggs, Texas.

Jim Ray Baker’s legacy of love, faith, hard work, and a life well-lived will forever remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.