Joe Michael Baker, 73, of Newport departed this life on Saturday, June 3, at his home. He was born December 30, 1949, in Newport to William Benard and Louvita Magouyrk Baker. Mr. Baker was a 1969 graduate of Newport High School, then received his bachelor’s degree from Lyon College in 1987. He worked twenty-plus years for the Department of Human Services as a social worker, he also worked at Purdy’s Flower Shop where he enjoyed the people and arranging flowers. He loved helping the elderly and taking care of their needs. His greatest love was for his family, especially for his nieces and nephews. Joe enjoyed genealogy, finding old cemeteries, reading John Grissom books, and was a collector of antiques.
He was preceded in death by his parents; William Benard and Louvita Magouyrk Baker, one sister and brother-in-law; Susan Baker Houle and Art Houle, two sisters-in-law, Belinda Howard Baker and Barbara Baker, and a niece; Amber Lynnette Pilgrim.
He is survived by his two brothers; Skeeter Baker of Cave City, and Junior Baker and wife Mary of Newport, 2 nieces; Julie Starr Brewer and husband Blake of Judsonia, Chenoa Summers and husband Steven of Jonesboro, two nephews; Skipper Baker and wife Shadra of Jonesboro, Jabe Baker and wife Alexandria of Bishop, Georgia.
