James Willard Baker, 91, of Columbia, KY 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, and Woodson Baker; and three sisters: Mary Helen Bunch, Claristeen Reliford and Dimple Coomer.

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

SURVIVORS:

His wife: Elsie Jessie Baker of Columbia

3 sons: Bob Baker, Wayne Baker and Larry Baker all of Columbia

1 brother & 2 sisters-in-law: Richard & Gladys Baker and Margie Baker, all of Columbia

6 grandchildren & several great-grandchildren

Many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends

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

Burial: 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.