Marion Baker

Born on August 28, 1937, in Talladega, Alabama to parents Willie Patterson, Sr. and Hattie Mae Burrough Patterson was a beautiful baby girl given the name Marion Patterson Baker. Marion spent a lifetime exemplifying compassion, grace, and resilience. From a young age, her strong faith in Christ formed the foundation upon which she built her life. Her journey took her to Avon Park, Florida, where she dedicated herself to serving her community and nurturing those around her. She was educated in the Talladega City School System where she attended Westside High School. Ms. Baker ventured into the retail industry including Circle K Cooperation and Eagle Ridge in Lake Wales, Florida, before stepping into her true calling and becoming her own superior. Ms. Baker's commitment to nurturing the youth extended beyond her own family, as she selflessly served the neighborhood, ensuring the well-being and nourishment of countless children throughout her journey, not only through her personal community store, but also care and compassion daily. After over 54 years of residing in Florida, from 1970 to 2024, Ms. Baker relocated back to Alabama to be closer to family. Ms. Baker's impact on the lives she touched through her work will forever be remembered. Her kindness and commitment in the community resonated with all who knew her. In reflecting on her life, we celebrate her natural ability to bring joy to those around her - from collecting scrap metal to her enthusiastic participation in bingo games, she exemplified a spirit of adventure and zest for life. As Ms. Baker travel her 87-year earthly journey, she became the mother of six loving children. Ms. Baker enjoyed spending time with family, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. Her dedication to her family was unmatched, and she found great joy in sharing moments of laughter and love with her nieces and nephews, but most of all, Ms. Baker was going to make sure kept the barbeque grill with flames while enjoying the pleasure of keeping her customers happy. Ms. Marion Baker, a devoted and beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and member of the community, made her grand entrance through those pearly gates on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 in the comfort of her home, as she boarded the train to glory while surrounded by her beloved family knowing that she had fought a good fight, she had finished the race, and God knows she had remained faithful. As she answered her Master's call and receive her crown of righteousness, she was reunited with her parents, Willie, Sr. and Hattie Patterson, son, Marshall Whiteside, daughter, Theresa Whiteside, brother, Donald Patterson, sisters, Virginia Patterson and Breda Morris. She is survived by her loving and devoted children: son, James (Bianaica) Beck, Jr.; daughters, Catherine (Michael) Elston, Aldrecia (Dana) Andrews, and Hattie Brown; brothers, Willie Patterson, Curtis (Phyllis) Patterson, John Patterson, and Jerome (Maira) Patterson; sisters, Vivian White, Bettye Patterson, Barbara Jenkins, and Jessie Stevens; special friend, Isaiah Mitchell; two friends, Ms. Hattie Troutman and Ms. Annie Lee Seals; eleven grandchildren; and a multitude of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will forever hold her close to their hearts. As we celebrate her legacy, let us reflect on the immeasurable love and kindness she shared with all who knew her. This will be a tribute to the joy she brought to those around her and the enduring mark she leaves on the hearts of many. While gather to bid farewell to Ms. Baker, let us remember her with fondness and gratitude for the light she brought into our lives. In her passing, may we find comfort in the memories we shared and the enduring impact of her presence. Rest in peace, Ms. Baker, your spirit will forever be cherished in our hearts. Marion Baker's legacy of kindness and her steadfast commitment to her community will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her. We take comfort in knowing that her spirit will continue to inspire us as we remember her remarkable journey through life.

Tributes

Marion Baker

August 28, 1937 - April 16, 2025