Michael Ray Baker

A Life of Compassion, Community, and Celebration

Michael Ray Baker, 70, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the Medical University of South Carolina, surrounded by his beloved “girls” - a testament to the deep love that defined his extraordinary life.

Born on January 29, 1954, in Hampton, Virginia, Michael was the eldest son of Henry Franklin Baker Jr. and Loretta Fae (Ray) Baker. From his earliest days, he embodied a spirit of curiosity, joy, generosity, and leadership that would become his hallmark throughout his remarkable journey.

Michael grew up graduating from Rockville High School in 1972 and spent most of his adult life in Montgomery County, Maryland. In 1983, Michael married Lura-Lee (Colteryahn) Baker and soon after their daughters Kara-Lee (Baker) Herdman and Kirsten Lee Baker arrived to complete the family of four.

Michael was a Christian, a devoted Husband, and a “Girl Dad” by all measures. His life was a tapestry of passionate dedication - to his family, his career, his community, and the countless lives he touched along the way. Among many of Michael’s accomplishments, was his co-founding and coaching of the Maryland Flames Girls Basketball AAU organization in 1997. Coach Baker took several teams to national championships through the years and acted as a father figure for many. As a coach, he wasn’t just teaching basketball, but building character, confidence, and lifelong bonds.

Michael’s professional path was as dynamic as his personality. He spent over two decades in Information Technology and Government contracting before transitioning to custom home building. When he retired to North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Michael customized his own dream home and served as the President of the neighborhood’s Property Owners Association for four years.

Michael loved spending time with his family and friends. He was the life of the party, always with a quick joke on the tip of his tongue to make you laugh. Great food, wine and company were some of his biggest pleasures in life. He was always looking for ways to help others which prompted the creation of his “Locals of North Myrtle Beach” Facebook group, yet another legacy he leaves behind with thousands of members.

Michael is survived by his devoted wife of over 40 years, Lura-Lee; his daughters Kirsten Lee Baker and Kara-Lee (Dan) Herdman; grandchildren Andrew, Everlee, and Baker; his parents Henry Franklin Jr. and Loretta Fae Baker; brothers Brian and Keith (Ashlea) Baker; niece Brittany (Erik) Noll; nephew Collin (Samantha) Baker; and their children. Michael is also survived by sister-in-law, Karen Colteryahn, and an immeasurable network of friends who were, in every meaningful way, family.

Michael Ray Baker left a great impact on those fortunate enough to have known him. He will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and limitless generosity will continue to inspire all who were touched by his one-of-a-kind spirit.

Celebration of Life

Visitation: Monday, December 9, 2024, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Lee Funeral Home and Crematory 11840 Hwy 90, Little River, South Carolina 29566

Funeral Service: Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 11:00 AM Lee Funeral Home and Crematory

The funeral service will be streamed and recorded via Lee Funeral Home’s Facebook page for out-of-town viewers.

Final Resting Place: North Myrtle Beach Memorial Gardens Little River, SC 29566

A subsequent Celebration of Life in Maryland will be scheduled in the coming months, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to a youth sports organization in Coach Baker’s name.