Leonard Samuel Baker

Beloved Children’s Author and World War II Veteran

We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Sam Baker — children’s book author, veteran, and lifelong dreamer — passed away peacefully on June 8th, 2025, at the age of 102.

Sam’s story began in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where he delivered newspapers as a boy and cultivated the work ethic and imagination that would carry him through a remarkable life. A decorated Marine Corps officer in World War II, a NOAA captain, and later the world’s first GPS salesman, Sam always believed in learning, leading, and giving back.

But perhaps the most inspiring chapter of Sam’s life began at age 95, when he became a first-time children’s author. Fueled by his deep love for storytelling and a desire to encourage kindness, literacy, and imagination, Sam published a series of heartwarming, award-winning books that captured readers young and old.

With titles like Oscar the Mouse and Herman the Worm, Sam’s books are now in homes and libraries across the world — proof that it’s never too late to make a difference.

Sam is survived by his children, Sally and Michael, and by every child and parent whose heart he touched through his stories.

To honor Sam’s memory, we invite you to continue sharing his books, reading with the young people in your life, and living with curiosity, compassion, and joy — just as he did every day.

With love,

The Sam Baker Books Family

www.SamBakerBooks.com