Richard Baker

Richard Alexander Baker was born in 1935 at 312 Third Street, Avondale, Pennsylvania. He was the third son of Lydia Smith Baker and Isaiah Russell Baker, Sr. Richie, as he was affectionately called, was named after his grandfathers on both sides of the family:  Richard Baker and Alexander Smith. He attended the public elementary, middle and high school in Chester County and graduated from Avon Grove High School in 1955. 

Shortly after high school Richard enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas and at the base at Goose Bay, Labrador. While in the military Richard received a secret clearance as a cryptographic operator. For his military service he earned a good conduct medal and he received an honorable discharge from the Air Force in 1957. 

One of Richard’s sincere loves was his Harley Davidson motorcycle, which he rode all over the country and beyond. He worked as a truck driver delivering fuel oil for Diamond Fuel in Delaware. He was employed for many years and retired from A-del Construction Company in Newark. 

Richard was affiliated with AME Zion Church in Avondale. He was always known as a friendly, fun-loving and goodhearted person. “Hey, Buddy Roll” was a common expression he used whenever he greeted a friend. Richard was always devising things to do to trick someone or to tease someone. He especially enjoyed the music of Ray Charles, Willie Nelson, Hank Snow and all kinds of Country Western Music. 

He leaves to grieve his passing three children: Judy Ann Luban of Wayne, Pennsylvania, Monique Watkins of New Castle, Delaware and Richard Jr. of Newark; two grandchildren, Monet Watkins and KeAir Watkins and two great grandchildren, Nilae Everitt and Legend Clark. His brothers and sisters always looked forward to seeing him, sharing stories with him and finding out “what Richie was up to next”. His sisters are: Ann M. Anderson (William) of Wilmington, June Elizabeth Minor (Earl) both deceased, Frances M. Reid (Alfred) of Avondale and Evelyn Baker Dandy (Alphonso) of Savannah, Georgia; and his four brothers, Isaiah Russell Baker, Jr. (Elizabeth) both deceased of Avondale, Robert Edward Baker (Laura-deceased) of Coatesville, James Baker who died in infancy and Donald Lee Baker (Margie) of West Grove. He will also be sorely missed by a host of nieces, nephews and first, second and third cousins.

Given the current COVID-19 crisis all services have been cancelled at this time. A Celebration of Life Service will be scheduled by the family at a date to be announced.  

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