Ronald Alan Baker

Ronald Alan Baker, also known as “Ron”, 66 years of age, a resident of Richmond Virginia, peacefully passed away on November 18, 2020. His final days and moments were spent with family by his side, just as he would have wanted.

Ron was born on December 23, 1953 in Rantoul Illinois, at Chanute Air Force Base. The second of three sons, and one daughter born to Homer and Dolores Baker. On October 9, 1971, Ron married his childhood sweetheart, Lori. They are the proud parents of three children, Jamie, Jason and James. Ron and Lori’s marriage transcended through forty-nine years of marriage. Through the peaks and valleys that come with life and that amount of time, Ron and Lori’s love remained a beacon of light to those around them. In his own words he said, “this beauty always had faith in me, and she never showed me anything but kindness and love”. That kind of love is unique and will forever stand as a solid example of unwavering love to their family.

Ron had several titles in his lifetime. However, he was most proud of the title his beloved grandchildren gave him, their “Papa”. Ron’s devotion to his grandchildren will be remembered by his countless acts of love, his personal pride in each of them and unwavering devotion to help them in any way he could. Making memories that he would eventually be remembered for was his lifes most important work. Ron had a deep sense of adventure. He lived for impromptu road trips anywhere! He thoroughly enjoyed venturing into the unknown and taking in the new culture, people and the adventures that followed. From a young age Ron had a passion for music. Enough so, that in elementary school he and his brothers formed a band he named “The Termites”. That band ignited his love for the drums. He enjoyed all music, but especially enjoyed supporting homegrown bands and musicians. Ron made it a point to share his love for music with his children by exposing them to live bands or musicians playing around town. More specifically, in the earlier years, they frequented Luckenbach, Texas for some of the best in the state. They will cherish those, at the time seemingly simple outings, as some of their best memories of their father.

Ron intentionally orchestrated making memories with his family and so many more, that will be shared for years and generations to come. He would expect it to be mentioned that he continued to play the drums with the same passion he always had until his passing. Ron had many interests that included flying, reading, and prolific storytelling amongst his dearest friends, that he considered family. He held the title of the Patriarch of the family very seriously and with immense love and pride. He spent his entire adult life building a legacy that he hoped would live on long after his passing. What a beautiful gift that will live on long after he is gone.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Lori Baker. His beloved children, Jamie Dotson (Mike Dotson), Jason Baker, and James Baker. His cherished grandchildren, Micaleh, Jacob, Morgan, and Corben. As well as close family friend, Crystal Sprouse, and numerous other extended family members. Ron was predeceased by his father Homer Baker, his mother Dolores Baker, siblings Debra Bankhead (Baker), Michael Baker and Jeffrey Baker. As well as several other beloved family members. His song is not over; he is just at a different venue. He has simply slipped to the other side of a very thin veil, enjoying a magnificent reunion with those that went before him.