Reverend Carl Baker, 78, went to be with his Lord and Saviour, Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026.
Born May 11, 1947, in Pike County, he was the son of the late Ruben and Lona Baker. Known to most as Brother Baker, he was a man whose life was defined by love, faith, and service to others. He grew up as one of six children, three being his half-siblings, whom he cherished as much as his own sisters and brother. From a young age, he understood the sacrifices of a coal miner’s family, learning the values of hard work and responsibility early on. After high school, he followed many others to Detroit, where he worked in the car factories, striving for a better life. It was during this time that he married his high school sweetheart, Deborah Maynard, and together they began their life in Lexington. His career at the Kroger Company spanned 26 years, ultimately earning the role of store manager. As his life unfolded, he felt a powerful calling to the ministry. In response, he pursued his ministerial license and dedicated 21 years of service to various churches, where the Lord blessed his work abundantly. His ministries touched many lives, and he was privileged to go on several foreign mission trips, further deepening his faith and impact on others. He retired in 2010 while serving at the Church of the Nazarene in Mt. Sterling. His greatest joy, however, was serving alongside his wife, Deborah, for over 59 years. Their shared commitment to the Lord was the greatest fulfillment of his life. He delighted in watching their children grow up to serve the Lord and cherished raising their eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren with the same strong faith that defined his own life.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Deborah Maynard Baker; son, Chris (Andrea) Baker of Lexington; daughters, Sarah (Nick) Pannell of Goshen and Susan (Kevin) Eloy of Centerville, Mass.; daughter-in-law, Lynne Baker of Richmond; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Neva Bentley; brother, Joseph Baker; half-sister, Norene Anderson Vanover; and half-brother, Paul Anderson. He will most of all be welcomed into Heaven by his youngest son, Brian Baker.
Celebration of life will be held Saturday, Feb. 21, at the True Life Community Church of the Nazarene, 212 Winn St., Mt. Sterling. Visitation will be 1-3 p.m., followed by a brief service.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Nazarene Missions to support the Youth for Missions trips.
Known by many names: Brother Carl, Pastor Baker, Dad, Papaw, he lived a life full of love, faith and hard work. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, and although he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.
Arrangements are under the care of Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory.
