Joel Ray Baker

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joel Ray Baker, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. Joel passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at the age of 68. Born on December 30, 1957, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Joel was the cherished son of Ray and the late Alice Baker. Joel's journey began in the vibrant city of Charlotte, where he was born and raised. He graduated from South Point High School, where he formed many lifelong friendships and laid the foundation for the compassionate and dedicated man he would become. His career was marked by his long and loyal service to Coates, from which he retired after many years, having earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike. Joel was a man of simple joys and deep loves. He found serenity in the gentle rhythm of the ocean waves and spent countless cherished moments by the beach, where he felt most at peace. An avid fisherman, Joel found solace and joy in casting his line into the water, a pastime he shared with friends and family. His love for NASCAR was infectious, and he rarely missed a race, always cheering for his favorite drivers with unbridled enthusiasm. Joel's heart was as expansive as the sea he adored. He is survived by his devoted wife Judith Baker, whose love and companionship were the pillars of his life. He was a proud and loving father to his children: Angie Smith and her husband Jeff, Jennifer England and her husband Travis, Jason Barnes and his wife Wendy, and Darryl Barnes and his wife Jessica. Each of them carries forward his legacy of kindness and integrity. Joel's grandchildren, Madyson, Brayden, Eli, and Hailey, were his pride and joy. He reveled in their laughter and was ever-present in their lives, offering guidance and love. Joel is also survived by his father Ray Baker, whose strength and wisdom were lifelong sources of inspiration, and his dear sister Denise Sisk and her husband Jerry, who shared in the joys and challenges of life with him. Joel was predeceased by his mother, Alice Baker, and his first wife, Barbara Baker, whose memories he treasured and held close to his heart. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joel's life and honor his memory at a service on March 15, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the East Belmont Free Will Baptist Church, located at 909 Edgemont Avenue, Belmont, NC 28012. Joel's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to inspire love, kindness, and a zest for life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Joel's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting his generous spirit and dedication to helping others. Joel Ray Baker will be dearly missed, yet his spirit and love will forever illuminate the lives of those he touched. May he rest in peace, embraced by the eternal waves of the sea he loved so dearly.