James Willard Baker, 91, of Columbia, Kentucky, died Monday, March 31, 2025 at TJ Health/Columbia

He was born December 29, 1933, in Adair County, to the late Edd Lee and Lillie Mae Coomer Baker.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Jimmy Lee Baker, four brothers, Willie Elmer Baker, Clarence Embry Baker, Stanley Baker, Woodson Baker and three sisters, Mary Helen Bunch, Claristeen Reliford and Dimple Coomer.

Willard was a member of Carry the Torch Ministries and a retired Tool and Die Machinist.

Survivors include:

His wife – Elsie Jessie Baker of Columbia

Three sons – Bob Baker, Wayne Baker and Larry Baker all of Columbia

One brother and two sisters-in-law – Richard and Gladys Baker and Margie Baker all of Columbia

Six grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Funeral service – Thursday, April 3, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home with Bro. Brad Atkins officiating

Burial in Antioch Cemetery

Visitation after 5:00 P.M. Wednesday

Casket Bearers – Wayne Baker, Larry Baker, David Crites Baker, Jordan Baker, Joe Reynolds, Timmy Montgomery, Colton Nunn

Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements