Frank "Tommy" Thomas Baker Jr.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, and raised on Baker & Son’s Dairy Farm, Tommy grew up learning the values of hard work, service, and devotion to family—principles that guided him throughout his life.

A proud and decorated veteran, Tommy served his country with distinction as a Colonel in the United States Army. His leadership and steadfast commitment were a reflection of his deep love for others and his calling to serve. Even after retirement, his sense of duty never waned—it simply shifted to faith, family, and community.

Tommy was a man of unwavering faith. As a devoted Baptist Christian, he loved to share the Gospel and saw every opportunity to serve as a way to reflect God's love. He served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher at Westwood Baptist Church and other churches. His life was a living testimony—bold, compassionate, and filled with the joy of fellowship. Whether offering a kind word or a helping hand, Tommy lived to lift others up.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Deeleen Baker; his daughters, Amy Upchurch (Shawn) and Erin Cullop (Jared); and his treasured grandchildren, Evin and Nora Upchurch, and Elias, Joseph, Madeline, and Scarlet Cullop. He is also survived by his sister, Tisia Baker; brother, James Baker (Merrie); nephews, Eric Lovelady (Barbara), and Ben Lovelady; and nieces, Abby McNeal (Andrew), Annalee Hunt (Randall), Beth Baker (Chris Arnold), and Brooke Ellis (Ron).

Tommy was preceded in death by his grandparents, Margaret and Oren Eddings and John Frank and Sadie Baker; his parents, Frank and Virginia Baker; and his brother, John Baker.

His presence was larger than life—his voice, his laughter, and most of all, his love. He never met a stranger and never missed a chance to show up for the people he cared about.

A visitation for Tommy will be held Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Rockco Funeral Home (Montevallo), 3715 Highway 25, Montevallo, AL 35115, with the funeral service to begin at 2:00 PM. Pastor Scott Morton will officiate. He will be laid to rest at Montevallo City Cemetery with a reception to follow at Rockco Funeral Home (Montevallo) until 5:00 PM.

Condolences and memorial donations may be sent to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/tribute-program .

God bless him for his love, faith and life of service. We will miss him, but he is dancing with the angels and singing in the heavenly choir. Amen.

Hooah!