Hairston Funeral Home | Martinsville, VA

Obituary For Frank E. Baker, SR

On December 11, 1933, Frank Edward Baker, weighing in at 16 pounds, was born at the home of his parents George Alexander Baker and Trudy Bell France, in Martinsville, VA. Prior to Frank’s birth, his parents had lost four children, one daughter and three sons; two to whooping cough and, two to what we call today, SIDS. His parents later had three other sons: Billy, Henry, and Jerome.

In later years, Frank’s father remarried and had two sons: Gregory and Michael.

At an early age, Frank accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savoir at Fayette Street Christian Church. He rededicated his life to Christ at Mount Olive East Church in Martinsville.

Frank attended Albert Harris School. After graduating high school, he was drafted into the Army to serve during the Korean War. Frank served at a military prison in West Virginia for two years, 1951-53, as a Military Police.

In 1958, Frank graduated from Hampton Institute with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology with a concentration on Electronics. In 1960, he married his college and Jamaican sweetheart, Gloria Joyce Williams. He and Gloria made their home in Oklahoma City. While in Oklahoma, the Bakers were faithful members of Wildwood Christian Church.

From 1962-1984, Frank taught electronics at Douglas High School, the only black high school during segregation. While teaching at Douglas High, Frank also taught math and electronics at OIC (Opportunities Industrialization Center) for seven years, and worked with Job Core in Guthrie, OK for four years. He was offered employment at George Washington University but declined because he had settled his family in Oklahoma. Frank was a business owner: Baker Reconning, an audio systems sound equipment repair shop, serving personal and commercial clients.

In 1985, Frank moved to Suitland, MD. He acquired meaning employment with a movie theater repairing theater equipment, film. Frank also entertained retired veterans by showing movies in veteran centers/homes.

Frank later moved back to Martinsville where he lived the remainder of his life.

On Friday, October 2, 2020, Frank was called Home. Preceding his death: his parents, wife Gloria, four brothers Billy, Henry, Jerome, Gregory.

Those left to cherish his memories: two sons: Frank, Jr. and Phillip (Felecia), five grand-children, and nine great-grands, and one brother Michael Baker.

Frank will be missed but always in our hearts.

Graveside Service for Mr. Baker will be held Thursday, October 8, 2020 at 11 A.M. at Mt. Olive East Christian Church in Martinsville, VA. Due to the CDC guidelines, a face covering, and social distancing will be required.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Hairston Funeral Home of Martinsville, VA.

Guest Book

It was Frank Baker that encouraged me to become an electrical engineer, and attend Oklahoma State University in 1967, and eventually receiving the doctorate. I took a lot from our classroom at Douglass Senior High School and his teachings. Eventually, becoming a lead engineer in the US Air Force, and following that becoming dean of engineering at Tuskegee University. During my time at Tuskegee, over 1,000 engineers graduated from 1994-2016. Thank you for sharing him with us; his contribution has trended worldwide.

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With my sincere sympathy for the family. May God bless you and keep you safe.

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R I P Great teacher and person Don Johnson,Missouri

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RIP Great teacher and person

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Mr. Baker was an inspiration to me during my time at Classen High R I P

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Mr. Baker was an inspiration for me at Classen and I remember how he talked about how important education and technology was for students in the future.R I P Sir

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Mr. Baker was a great teacher and wonderful person. We would sit and talk after class and he passed a lot of wisdom if you listened. Prayers and love to his family.

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Mr. Baker was my teacher from 1974-1976. Great man who taught me about electronics but more than that took the time to teach me about becoming a man. I salute you Mr. Baker!

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In the late 70's, I had the opportunity to attend Mr. Baker's electronics class at Classen Senior High School in Oklahoma City. Under Mr. Baker's tutelage, I learned a little about electronics but most importantly, I learned invaluable lessons in life from this kind and generous man! I am forever grateful. May God grant the Baker family peace and understanding in this time of loss. James R. Dickson - Oklahoma City, OK

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Almost 40 years ago you welcomed me into your family and your heart..i called you Dad and you called me Chelle your daughter..you were always kind and gentle and so loving to your grandchildren..your hugs were so full of warmth like a big teddy bear..you will forever be in my heart..i love you Dad and will miss you..keep Charlie company till I see yall again. Your daughter for life Michelle Baker

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Mr.Baker was my electronics teacher at Classes High School, in Oklahoma City, OKLAHOMA. HE helped me build my AM/FM radio. Mr. Baker was more than a teacher he was a very special friend that if you had a problem you could go to him and he would listen. He was the Best Teacher. Sorry for your lost. My thoughts and prayers are with you . Brenda Sheppard

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Mr Baker was one my favorite teacher. Rest In Peace. Prayers for his family.

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Me Baker was my Electronics teacher for all 4 of my years at Classen. He was much more than an electronics to for me. He was a friend and father figure. I learned more about life than electronics from me Baker. I am sorry for your loss. Me and my family (as I have spoken to them on many occasions about Mr Baker's influence on my life) will keep you in our prayers.

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To the family and loved ones of Mr. Baker; I remember Mr. Baker a Classen High in Oklahoma City. He was one of the best teachers to have. May you be comforted knowing your grief is shared.

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To Frank E. Baker, Sr. Family The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Psalm 23: 1:3 My God's promises comfort you and sustain you... May His steadfast love be your strength and your hope. Our prayers are with you during this time of loss. With Deepest Sympathy Mount Olive East Christian Church Disciples Women's Ministry Pastor Kenneth Davis

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Many years ago in 1985 Frank Baker Sr became my father-in- law from that day until now I called him dad he showed me what a dad truly was. Caring. Kind, loving, always teaching and guiding you through life's ups and downs and praising God. You are my night and shining star I will look up and remember you always, your daughter-in -law Felicia B.

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With our deepest sympathy....you are in our thoughts and prayers....Marshall and Mary Thomas

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Sorry for your loss And extending condolences to the family and praying God will comfort you during this difficult time. The Life Society, Hazel W Spencer, President.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Hairston Funeral Home | Martinsville, VA