Lula F. Baker

A Time to Be Born – November 30, 1935, to Eliza F. Lane and Geniatis Lane in Raleigh, N.C. Being the youngest of three girls. Both of my sisters, Millie Murphy and Delores Howard are deceased. I was married twice and divorced from both.

Education began at St. Monica Catholic School in Raleigh. Then to Booker T. Washington Elementary and graduated from Huntington High School, in Newport News, Virginia. At an early age I wanted to be a nurse, so I went to the Dixie Hospital School of Practical Nursing, in Hampton, VA. After receiving my license, I went to California and worked at Doctor’s Hospital in Santa Ana. Years later I became a member of the Mary Immaculate Hospital staff and remained there for 18 years, before I transferred to Hampton General where I was employed for 16 years. After retirement I became part of the Hampton High School Nursing family and met my friends, the Ories.

I have had the blessing of two beautiful children: Carol Mann (Alvis) and William A. Baker (Cleo); five grandchildren: Connie Graham (Torrey), Crystal Mann, Jessica Cooper (B.J.), Anthony Walker and Radeika Baker; eight great-grandchildren: Rachel, Jeremiah, Victoria Graham, Kordell Davis, Arrall Frazier, Jakuja Braxton, Canvas Cooper,. Amora Anderson; also several nieces and nephews, and best friend Reatha Montgomery.

I joined St. James U.M.C. under the pastorate of M.F. Hatcher. I admired my pastor and her talent for decorating. So, I worked closely with her to decorate the church for all holidays, especially Christmas and Easter in addition for weddings. I served in the following capacities: Mission chairperson, Recording Secretary for the Leadership Committee, a member of the SPPR Committee, and was a member of the 70’s+ Senior Group. I always prayed for the growth of St. James in members and financially. As my health deteriorated, I remained in good spirits and embraced the time I had left with my wonderful family and friends. Now I hope to join my mother and sisters who have gone on before me. A Time to Die – May 17, 2026

The family will receive friends for a visitation that will be held at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 2551 North Armistead Ave, Hampton, Virginia 23666, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at St. James United Methodist Church, 1533 W Queen St, Hampton, VA 23669, on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 11:00 am, with an entombment to follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens.