David Lee Baker

SIKESTON — David Lee Baker was born on Jan. 6, 1957, to Wallee (Henry) Baker in Advance, Missouri, and died Jan. 3, 2025. He was the fifth of six children and grew up in Bell City, Missouri, where he graduated from Bell City High School in 1976.

After high school, David worked at Arvin Automotive in Dexter, Missouri, until 1984, when he chose to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. During his service, David achieved the rank of Operations Specialist Second Class (OS2) and was decorated with many honors. His time in the Navy exemplified his dedication, leadership and commitment to excellence.

Following his honorable service, David returned home to care for his ailing mother and younger sister. He continued working in various roles, including positions at Tetra Pak in Sikeston, Nestlé in Bloomfield, Missouri, and Faurecia Automotive in Dexter until the plant’s closure.

In 1991, David and Lisa Lane were blessed with a daughter, Tomielle Lane, and in 2018, he joyfully welcomed his granddaughter, Sarah Lane, into his life. David adored both of them and was elated by the birth of his granddaughter, whom he cherished deeply.

David enjoyed spending his spare time capturing memories through photography and exploring the family farm with his metal detector. He took great pride in maintaining the property and his vehicle, often seen meticulously mowing or driving slowly down gravel roads to keep his car spotless.

David was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, George H. Henry Sr. and Carrie Henry; his mother, Wallee Baker; his siblings, Genevia Jenkins, Rosa (Mickey) Shirley, Hattie Ward, Poinsetta Baker, and Walter (Buck) Baker, Jr.; and two nieces, Yolanda Shirley and Tonya Ward.

David leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his daughter, Tomielle Lane, and granddaughter, Sarah Lane, both of St. Louis, Missouri. He also leaves to cherish his memory his nieces Carrine White of Dallas, Texas, Nekita (Jeremiah) Tucker of Austin, Texas, and Laura Mickens of Irving, Texas; nephews Ronald (Katie) Jenkins and Wallee Jenkins of Sikeston, Samuel (Vonda) Ward of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Timothy Ward of Columbia, Missouri, and Charity Ward of Springfield, Illinois; his best friend, Sidney Williams of New Madrid, Missouri; and a host of great-nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

David’s life was a testament to his dedication, kindness and love for his family and friends. His memory will be cherished forever.

Friends may call Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at 10 a.m. until the funeral hour of noon at Green Memorial Church of God in Christ in Sikeston. Full military honors will be held immediately following the services.

Williams Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.