Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Horace Baker

Horace Baker, the Third child born to Robert and Willie Mae Baker on April 1, 1937 in Montgomery, Alabama departed his life on September 5, 2025, at the VA Community Living Center in Philadelphia PA

Horace Baker was a man of faith, courage, and unwavering dedication. Educated in the public school system, he gave his life to Christ and was baptized at an early age in the Baptist tradition. In his spiritual journey, he later embraced the Catholic faith, where he served faithfully and remained an active member for many years, only stepping back as his health began to decline.

A lifelong learner and adventurous soul, Horace answered the call to serve his country at the remarkable age of 16 by joining the United States Army. Over the course of a distinguished 20-year military career, he rose to the rank Master Sergeant and was recognized with numerous commendations including the highly esteemed Bronze Star for Valor a testament to his bravery and leadership on the battlefield from his three tours in Vietnam.

After retiring honorably from the military, Horace continued to lead a life marked by discipline and purpose. He built a second career at Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Company, where he dedicated another 20 years of service, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues for his commitment and integrity.

Horace was preceded in death by his beloved parents, the late Robert Baker, Sr. and Willie Mae Baker, his paternal grandparents, Garfield and Lizzie Baker; maternal grandparents, Bosie and Lillie Richmond; his sister, Elizabeth Baker; and brothers Elijah "Stud" Baker, Robert Baker, Jr., and Ulysses Thomas.

On September 5, 2025, Horace peacefully departed this life, surrounded by love, as God welcomed him into eternal rest. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love in the hearts of those who knew him. He survived by his devoted wife, Hattie Belle Baker; his loving son, Albert Baker and wife Jane of Neptune, New Jersey; his brother, John Baker and wife Mattie of Montgomery, Alabama; his sister, Marilyn Williams and husband Leon of Montgomery Ala; his sister-in-law, Juanita Baker of Camden, New Jersey; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Horace's life was a shining example of honor, humility, and service. He will be deeply missed, yet forever lovingly remembered.

Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, September 11, 2025, 11am at the Corpus Christi R.C. Church, 11 South Sunset Road, Willingboro,NJ. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing, Thursday morning, 9:30am - 10:30am at the Goes - Scolieri Funeral Home, 212 Veterans Parkway, Willingboro,NJ,08046. (609)871-1000. Interment with Full US Army Honors will be at the Brig. Gen. Wm. C. Doyle Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Wrightstown,NJ.