Mary Frances Baker

Mrs. Baker was born on January 27, 1924, in Augusta, Georgia. She was the first child of Mary Ellen Radcliffe Wofford and Theodore Ross Wofford. She graduated Girls High School of Augusta. She attended University of Georgia and continued her education throughout her adult life. She always thought “Life is the best educator”.

Mary Frances met Robert E. Baker, Sr. on New Year’s Eve. She described him as “her dream come true”. They were married for 40 years until his death. Bob and Mary Frances raised their two sons in Chattanooga before moving to Charlotte.

After Bob’s death, Mary Frances moved to The Cypress of Charlotte where she lived happily for nearly 25 years. She is responsible for creating The Botanical Project, of which she researched and labeled all the flora on the property. While living at The Cypress she met many new friends, including her special friend Dr. Randy Ayer and his family whom she cherished. Mary Frances and Randy enjoyed much happiness and joy in their time together.

Mary Frances’ working career took her to many locations. She worked in Washington, DC for the Federal Public Housing Authority, The Trust Company of Georgia, McCallie School in Chattanooga, and lastly as a member of Baker Associates where she worked with domestic customers as well as international customers from London, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.

In addition to working full time and raising her two sons, Mary Frances volunteered for numerous organizations. She was a volunteer for the Red Cross and Loaves and Fishes, a docent for Lowe’s Art Museum at University of Miami, a member of Missionary Ridge Garden Club and the Charlotte chapter of P.E.O. She sat on several boards including the YMCA, of which she was the first woman member. She also served as PTA president at her son’s schools.

Mary Frances was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Charlotte, NC. She met her good friend and “Movie Buddy” Martha Mallory there. In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church’s Summer Camp programs.

Mary Frances is survived by her two sons, Robert Baker, Jr. and John Baker; daughters-in-law, Cecelia and Patricia; three grandchildren, Emily (Ryan), Mary (Mario) and Robert III; and four great-grandchildren, Daniel, Walter, Ruby and Mary Charles, and many nieces and nephews. She was a wonderful Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother and truly loved each one.

The interment will be in the Chattanooga National Cemetery, Chattanooga, Tennessee next to her husband, Bob, at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church’s Summer Camp programs.

Online condolences may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com.