Donald Keith Baker of Dyersburg died peacefully Friday evening, September 2nd after a long and full life of 84 years.  Born January 30, 1932 during the depths of the Great Depression in Tigrett TN to Isaac Hassell and Mary Martha Johnson Baker, "Buddy" or "Bud" Baker was the youngest of six children.   He was preceded in both life and death by sisters Charlotte Elaine Rice (1920-2008), Dorothy Ann (1926-1926), Jane LaNelle Patterson (1930-2012) and brothers James Jasper (Jim 1922-1978) and Thomas Johnson (Toby 1924-1948).

He was a devoted Christian, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.  Known for his calm demeanor, dry sense of humor, and unwavering honesty, Bud spent essentially his entire working career at Dyersburg Fabrics (Dyersburg Cotton Products or The Mill).  East Dyersburg Methodist Church was his church home for over 60 years where he enjoyed lasting and true friendships.  Following retirement from the Mill, he mowed the church lot, took homebound friends out for long drives down country roads, and was a reliable Red Coat volunteer at Dyersburg's hospital for many years.

He was fortunate enough to marry the prettiest girl he ever saw, Martha Tubbs (1931-2004).  Together, they raised three children: Londa Baker Hill (Tom), Donald Baker Jr (Alicia), and Mary Lee Baker Alford (Greg) of Madison, Memphis, and Lenox TN respectively.  He leaves 7 grandchildren: Hayden Hill, Savannah Hill, Kathleen Alford, Mary Kate Alford, Anna Alford, Allie Baker Shields (Joseph), Toby Baker, and 1 great grandson: James Curtis Shields in addition to a lasting legacy of warm support and love.

A private funeral service and public memorial to celebrate his life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to East Dyersburg Methodist Church or the charity of your choice in his memory.