Earl Raymond Baker

Earl Raymond Baker, 75, of Springdale died Wednesday, July 25, 2012, at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale. He was born Dec. 24, 1936, in Springdale. His younger days in Springdale were spent avoiding trouble, but more often than not, finding it with his favorite cousins. Earl was known for his tall tales, quick wit and unique sense of humor. Earl was a retired salesman and a pastor. He loved gardening and having his kids help with the garden — whether they wanted to or not. He was an avid reader of all things spiritual and philosophical. He was a very generous and compassionate man. Earl spent his life sharing his love for the Lord with everyone he encountered. Most special to him was his family. He was so very proud of each child and grandchild, and prayed for them daily. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Peggy Haggard. Earl is survived by his wife, JoAnn Deen Baker of the home, to whom he was married July 10, 1958; two sons, Tim Baker and wife, Deanah, of Springdale, and Michael Baker and wife, Catherine, of Fayetteville; two daughters, Joy Baker of Tulsa, and Melanie Baker Herman and husband, Jeff, of Collierville, Tenn.; one sister, Nedra Frain; and nephew, Jeff Thomas; eight grandchildren, Justin, Rachel and Evan Baker, Grant and Gracyn Herman, and John Riley, Thomas and Elizabeth Baker. Funeral services will be Monday, July 30, 2012, at 1 p.m. at Sisco Funeral Chapel of Springdale, with Pastor John Glasser officiating. Burial will be in the Bluff Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Road, Springdale, AR 72762. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.siscofuneral.com.