James Eugene Baker Jr.

August 17, 1954 – November 10, 2025

Clearfield, Utah

James Eugene Baker Jr., 71, returned to the arms of our Father in Heaven on Monday, November 10, 2025.

James was born on August 17, 1954, to James Sr. and Gladys Baker in Noblesville, Indiana. As the child of a military family, he lived in Texas, Okinawa, and ultimately Germany, where he graduated from high school in Munich.

At 21, James proudly followed in his father's footsteps and joined the United States Air Force. During his military service, he was stationed at Hill Air Force Base in Utah - a placement that would forever change his life. In the spring of 1980, he met the love of his life, Ester Parker. They became engaged on July 4 and were married on August 30, 1980. They went on to have three children: Joey, Mark, and Samantha. On August 30, 2025, James and Ester celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows - something he had wanted to do since their 25th anniversary.

After retiring from active duty in 1995, James continued his service to the nation by working as a Civilian employee at Hill AFB for an additional 20 years before retiring fully.

In his younger years, James was an avid bowler and participated in several leagues on base, forming lifelong friendships. He loved the sport deeply, and although health challenges eventually required him to step away, the memories and camaraderie remained dear to him.

James was known for his steady kindness, gentle humor, and quiet strength. Above everything, he was a devoted family man. He loved being a husband and father, but nothing brought him greater joy than being a grandfather. He cherished every moment with his grandchildren and loved to share stories about them with anyone who would listen.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Gladys; his brother, Danny Carl; his sister, Charity Jo; his nephew, Ronnie; and his great-grandson, Ezra Michael.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ester Baker; his children, Joey, Mark, and Samantha (Arjay); his grandchildren, Alyssa, Arianna, Rylynn-James, and Lola Marie; and his sisters, Mary Lou, Peggie, and Julie.

Funeral services will be held at Leavitt's Mortuary, 836 36th Street, Ogden, Utah, on Saturday, November 22, 2025. A viewing will be held from 9:00–10:30 a.m., followed by funeral services and Holy Mass. Military honors, including a 21-gun salute, will be rendered in recognition of James' service to our nation.