Janet Bowers Baker

Devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend Jan Bowers Baker died April 14, 2013, at age 83. She never met a stranger, and never lost her ability to surprise and to be surprised. Visitation will be held Thursday, April 18, 2pm to 3:15pm, at Trinity Presbyterian Church, with a memorial service to follow at 3:30pm.

Jan was born November 1, 1929 to Isabel and Fred Bowers. She grew up in Seguin, Texas, where she was raised by Isabel and her beloved stepfather Bitz Timmerman, who Isabel married after the death of Fred. She graduated from the University of Texas, where she was a member of the Chi Omega sorority. On a blind date, Jan met the love of her life, Harold D. “Rip” Baker. They married on November 26, 1954, and moved to Jackson on Valentine’s Day in 1956.

She is survived by her husband Harold D. “Rip” Baker, and four children, Dolph Baker (Dea Dea) of Jackson, LeeAnn Evans of Jackson, Dawson Baker (Pam) of Shreveport, and Jay Baker (Nichole) also of Jackson.

Jan was also blessed with five granddaughters—who she called her “grandgirls”—KeithAnn Hayes Carter (J.R.) of Hattiesburg, Hayley Jayne Hayes of Jackson, Rachel Baker of New York City, Jessi Baker also of New York City, Melissa Langley (Bryant) of Shreveport; one grandson Miles Baker of Jackson; as well as two great granddaughters, Rebekah Grace Carter and Mary Alex Carter.

Jan was a member of many luncheon clubs, and always seemed to become president of each one at some time, including Le Dejeuner Luncheon Club, Wise Owls Chi Omega group, Los Comarades, Petrol, Little Club Second Wednesday, and The Bridge Club. Perhaps the most dear to her was The Supper Club/Lunch Bunch group she and Rip belonged to for the past 54 years. She was a founding member of Redeemer Church, PCA, and was also involved with Trinity Presbyterian Church, where she had previously been a member for 52 years.

Peerlessly selfless, Jan will be remembered for her thoughtful ways and strong faith—always eager to offer a heart full of love, an ear ready to listen, and a hand ready to help.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Palmer Home for Children, P.O. Box 746, Columbus, MS, 39703.