Joseph Eugene Baker

Joseph Eugene “Gene” Baker, 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 11, 2016. He was born to the late Gene and Alma Baker of Arkansas on August 4, 1923. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Gene graduated from Tuckerman High School and the University of Arkansas. He served in the United States Marines in the South Pacific during World War II. Gene was a longtime member of Sharon United Methodist Church, and a Regional Sales Manager for the Pillsbury Company for close to 40 years.

Gene was an avid sports enthusiast and enjoyed watching the Panthers, FSU, and “Calling the Hogs” for his Razorbacks and always dressed for his team. He enjoyed square dancing with the Square Wheelers and attended many state and national conventions. As Pop-O the clown, he volunteered at many nursing homes, churchs, and other organizations in the area. Through his caring and fun-loving nature, he welcomed family and friends, he was a true gentleman and he touched the lives of all he met.

Gene was preceded in death by his loving wife Irene of 39 years, as well as his brother Jim. He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Charlyne Baker; sisters Mildred Brownd, Gertrude Ferguson; children Barbara (Dennis) Barber, Rebecca (Ralph) Ferguson, Gary (Deborah) Newlin, Valerie (Skip) Watkins, Anita (Allen) Stack; grandchildren Ashley (Dan) Johnson, Kyle (Karyn) Barber, Joseph Ferguson, VJ Watkins, Brian Watkins, James Webb, Candis (Paul) Fortner; great grandchildren Abigail Johnson, Will Fortner, Gracie Fortner

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 27th at Sharon United Methodist Church, 4411 Sharon Rd, Charlotte beginning at 11:30am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in his name.

Arrangements are under the care of McEwen Funeral Service, Charlotte. Online condolences can be made at www.mcewenfs.com.