Rev. Elwood "Pop" Baker

Rev. Elwood “Pop” Baker peacefully entered into his eternal heavenly rest at the age of 95 on Friday, March 22, 2024. He used his final words to pray over his passing, and was lovingly surrounded by his children and many grandchildren. Elwood was born on August 29, 1928 to Freeman Gorton Baker and Martha Emma Brooks in Waterford, CT. He grew up in Miami, FL and graduated from Jackson High School. Upon graduation, he immediately enlisted in the US Navy, where he served for two years on Yap Island during WWII. Upon returning home, he attended the University of Miami. It was during this time he met the love of his life, Cathy, and married her shortly after. They shared a beautiful life together along with their four children. Following his time at college, Elwood began his career with Southern Bell where he worked for over 30 years. He was called to the ministry in the 1960s after a dear co-worker, Chet Phillips, witnessed to him and first invited him to church back in 1950. Elwood preached and served at numerous churches around the country and was well known for his humor. “Have you heard the one about the…”. An Archer resident for nearly 60 years, he also enjoyed traveling and sightseeing around the country, but especially overseas for mission work. A true sports enthusiast, Elwood played both football and baseball in his youth. He would frequently spend evenings as an announcer for many sporting events, to include Baby Gators football and Gator basketball. He enjoyed golfing into his 90s. Elwood lived his life full of thanksgiving and love. His final exhortation was to “love everyone,” which was fitting for a man of God who regularly shared John 3:16 - “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Elwood was preceded in death by his wife, Cathy. He is survived by his three sons Rusty (Laurie) Baker, Carl Baker, and Larry Baker; daughter Cindy (Bill) Haynes; 13 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren. Celebration of Life will be held at First Baptist Church of Archer on Wednesday March 27th, 2024 at 2pm. Visitation 30 minutes prior, and private family burial immediately following. Please wear your brightest and happiest colors. In lieu of flowers, please follow Dad‘s example of generosity, and make a donation to your local church body, or a family in need.

Rev. Elwood "Pop" Baker

August 29, 1928 - March 22, 2024