Creedmoor — Willie Baker Jr, 89, passed away surrounded by his family on the morning of May 12. He was of the Baptist Faith. Willie was born on July 17, 1936, and has spent the majority of his life in the gorgeous countryside of Granville County. He has lived the last 50-plus years residing in the Granville County Community, Full Moon Road, Creedmoor, N.C.

Until his retirement, he was the owner operator of Baker's Welding Service for 40 plus years. Willie and his beloved wife, Margaret, recently celebrated 64 years of marriage. He had a tremendous love for softball. For many years he coached USSSA softball where his wife and two daughters played for him. He also enjoyed fishing, Nascar Racing and taking deep sea fishing trips with friends. He also enjoyed racing at Trico Motor Speedway back in the 70's where he won the rookie of the year race. Willie loved his family and enjoyed family gatherings and going to watch the grandkids' ballgames, dance recitals and other important activities.

Willie is survived by the love of his life wife, Margaret O. Baker; his children: Paula B. Cutts husband Tommy of Roxboro, N.C., Teresa B. Faulkner, husband Steve of Butner, NC.; his grandchildren: Tiffany C. Butler husband Jason of Durham, NC, Kyle R. Bizzell of Roxboro NC, Brittany M. Faulkner of Stem, NC, Steven B. Faulkner and Fiancé Hailey Koch of Rougemont, NC, his great-grandchildren: Colton T. Butler, Kenlie M. Butler, Aubrie A. Brett , Braylon D. Bizzell, as well as many nieces, nephews and longtime friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Kyle R. Bizzell, Steven B. Faulkner, Jonathan Sturgeon, Andy Wall, Larry Daniel, Will Lyon, Brett Brinkley, and Billy White. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Bob Taylor, Colton T. Butler and Ricky Baker.

Flowers may be accepted or memorial donations may be made to the Durham V.A. Hospital Hospice Facility in his memory.

The family wishes to thank all of his attending physicians, the 4th Floor Nursing Staff of Duke Hospital in Durham, N.C., and the VA Hospice Facility in Durham, NC for their attentive and passionate care in his final days of struggle, and ultimate rest.

Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com, Sossamon Funeral Home of Creedmoor is assisting the Baker Family.