SEND FLOWERS
Obituary
Norma Louise Baker, age 93, passed peacefully from this life surrounded by the love of her family and the assurance of her faith in Jesus Christ.
Norma was born on November 7, 1932, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Ervin and Whitney Spann. An only child, she faced adversity at a very young age when her mother passed away from kidney disease while Norma was still a little girl. Raised by relatives and grandparents in the Hohenwald, Tennessee area, she developed a resilience, determination, and appreciation for family that would shape the rest of her life. She often said that all she ever wanted growing up was a family of her own, and she spent the next nine decades building exactly that.
As a student, Norma excelled both academically and socially. She was a straight-A student, a cheerleader, and a star basketball player. With a smile, she would often say that all she really wanted to do was get good grades and score baskets. The discipline, energy, and enthusiasm she displayed during those years remained with her throughout her life.
While still a young woman, Norma met the love of her life, Jimmie S. Baker. Their marriage became a partnership that spanned decades, weathering life’s challenges and celebrating its blessings. Together they built a home, raised a family, and created a legacy of faith, hard work, and devotion that continues through their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Norma never met a stranger. She possessed a remarkable gift for conversation and connection. Whether meeting someone for the first time or reconnecting with an old friend, she could quickly discover shared acquaintances, experiences, or family connections. Friends often marveled at her ability to make meaningful relationships wherever she went. Her warmth, curiosity, and genuine interest in others made people feel valued and welcomed.
Her Christian faith was the foundation of her life. She loved studying God’s Word, encouraging others in their faith, and sharing the hope she found in Jesus Christ. She faithfully participated in Bible studies and was always eager to invite others to join her. Her faith sustained her through both joyful seasons and difficult trials, and she remained steadfast in her confidence of eternal life through Christ.
More than any accomplishment, Norma was proud of her family. She delighted in hearing about the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She celebrated their successes, prayed for them faithfully, and never stopped encouraging them. Her greatest joy was simply being together with those she loved.
Norma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmie S. Baker; her parents, Irving and Whitney Spann; and many cherished family members and friends who welcomed her into eternity.
She leaves behind her beloved children, Jimmie Kaye Curtis, Michael (Kathy) Baker, Robert Patrick (Coleen) Baker and Stephanie (Greg) Bennett. Dearest grandmother of 11, great-grandmother of 15 and great-great grandmother of 4.
While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in the promise of the Gospel and the assurance that Norma’s earthly journey has given way to eternal life. Her life stands as a testimony to God’s faithfulness, the power of perseverance, and the blessings of family. Her memory will be treasured by all who knew and loved her.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me".
Memorial service information to be announced by the family.
