Lester Lee Baker

Lester Lee Baker, born on July 10, 1929, lived a life marked by dedication, service, and an unwavering love for family. He passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and cherished memories.

Lester earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Southwest Texas Teacher’s College (now Texas State University). He proudly served in the United States Army, earning the rank of Master Sergeant during his time between World War II and the Korean War.

Following his military service, Lester built a successful 40-year career with Union Pacific/Southern Pacific Railroad. Starting at a young age, he worked his way up to become a Derailment Investigator, traveling across the country to ensure rail safety. Though his career kept him on call, he always found a way to put family first.

After retirement, Lester devoted his time as a volunteer at the Houston International Airport, where he never missed a day and enjoyed helping travelers find their way. His dependability, warm demeanor, and genuine smile made him one of the most appreciated airport volunteers and earned him the Volunteer of the Year Award.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents, Rhoda Mae Harris Baker and Sidney Burton Baker; his beloved wife, Virginia Marie Baker; sons, Larry Peters and Ronald Peters; brother, Howard Sidney Baker; and companion, Joan Milsaps.

He is survived by his daughter, Anna Seiden and her husband Dwight of Tyler, TX; daughter-in-law, Charlotte Peters; ten grandchildren—Rebecca Parratt, Kevin Seiden, Timothy Seiden, Amanda Lenington, Larry Peters Jr., Lee Peters, Logan Peters, Shawn Mabry, Shannon Bray, and Shae Boes; fifteen great-grandchildren; and fourteen great-great-grandchildren.

Lester cherished family gatherings and believed in the values of generosity, hard work, and honesty. An avid golfer, he spent countless weekends perfecting his game. He also had a love for cruises and was a devoted Houston Astros fan. His favorite snacks—peppermints and peanuts—were always within reach.

Lester Lee Baker’s kindness, dedication, and love for family will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.

A visitation for Lester will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 9:00 AM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039. A funeral service will occur the same day at 10:00 AM, with a committal service to follow at Brookside Memorial Park, at the same address.