Kenneth Baker

Kenneth Ray Baker, 67, died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, June 12, 2014, at his home in Auburn. Born June 10, 1947, in Opelika, he was a lifelong resident of the area and a faithful Auburn Tiger fan. Mr. Baker is survived by his two older brothers and their wives, Terry W. Baker Sr. (Monona Vickers Baker) and Jimmy Baker (Judy Duncan Baker), as well as numerous nieces and nephews who he loved as his own children, Terry W. Baker Jr. (Angela), David Baker (Deanna), Karen Baker, Michael Baker (Dawn), Jamie Baker (Cynthia), Mark Baker (Cat), and Heath Baker, as well as 12 great-nephews and eight great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Euther and Catherine Smith Baker; his nephew, Timothy Scott Baker; and nieces, Vikki Sue Baker and Wendy Aycock Baker. In his early years, he loved tagging along with big brothers and their friends and girlfriends, playing football for the school team, and working at Clark's Pharmacy in Opelika. After graduating from Opelika High School in 1965, he joined the National Guard, where he served for six years in the Signal Corp. In 1979, he earned a bachelors degree in Business Administration from Auburn University and, in 1985, a master's degree from Troy University. Having a strong work ethic, Mr. Baker often held more than one job at a time, including positions at Swift Manufacturing in Columbus, Lanier Hospital, and Auburn University, from which he was planning to retire this August after many years of dedicated service. Mr. Baker had a passion for Auburn football, always ready with a "War Eagle!" cry, regardless of his team's current record. He was a dedicated friend, eager to lend a hand whenever and however needed and was a cherished member of the "Pepperell Kids" group. He was not only a wonderful friend but also a loving son, devoted brother, and an ever-supportive and doting uncle. Among his family, he was most fondly known as "Unka Stump" or "Unka Kunka". His heart was made of pure gold, his blood ran blue and orange, and his family meant everything to him. Visitation for family and friends will be held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. today, June 14, 2014. The funeral service will take place at the same location at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 15, 2014. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory will be directing. Opelika, Ala. www.jeffcoattrant.com.