June Nadine Baker, 87, St. Clair, departed this life in Fenton Friday, Jan. 27, 2012.

Mrs. Baker was born in Bonne Terre June 28, 1924, the daughter of George Hughes and wife Beulah, nee Byers.

In 1943 she was united in marriage to James Whaley and three children came to bless this union.

On Dec. 1, 1973, she was united in marriage to John E. Baker Jr. and their families were joined as one.

Mrs. Baker is survived by her son, Steven Whaley and wife Julie, Arnold; her stepson, John Baker and girlfriend Donna Wideman, St. Clair; her stepdaughter-in-law, Marion Baker, Potosi; her brother-in-law, Tom Christopher, Independence; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; great- and great-great-nieces and -nephews; cousins; other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Beulah Hughes; her husbands, James Whaley and John E. Baker Jr.; two sons, Milton Whaley and Michael Whaley; one stepson, Daniel Baker; two brothers, Edmund Gale and Carl Hughes; and one sister, Mary Christopher.

Mrs. Baker was a Christian and member of St. John United Church of Christ, St. Clair. She was a member and past Worthy Matron of the Order of Eastern Star, St. Clair Chapter 96.

She was a member and past officer of Adah Shrine 25 of the Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem, Robertsville. She had been very active in the functions of the lodge and enjoyed the fellowship of her many friends in both organizations.

Mrs. Baker had enjoyed many other hobbies and interests during her life, especially arranging flowers and traveling with her family.

Above all else, caring for her home and family was always her first priority and she never tired of her job. Each of her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, just as she did in their hearts.

Order of Eastern Star services were held Wednesday, Feb. 1, at Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair.

A private committal will take place at a later date.

Memorials to the Order of Eastern Star, St. Clair Chapter 96, are preferred.

The family was served by Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair.

Published in The Missourian on February 8, 2012
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