Barbara Lee Baker, affectionately known as "Bobbie," "Nana," "Mamma Baker", and “Sergeant Baker” by her family, friends, dance family and students, embarked on her heavenly journey on Monday, October 23, 2023. Born on November 23, 1940, in Washington, DC, she was the third child of the late Louis Brown and the late Thelma Brown (Hilton).
Bobbie's life was one of unwavering love, selflessness, and joy. She attended public schools in Prince George's County and, on June 10, 1960, she married her beloved John "Johnny" Stephen Baker. Together, they welcomed two children into their lives: Mark S. Baker and Victoria L. Keithline (Baker). In her earlier years, Bobbie worked as a manager at Geico Insurance Company. Later, she became the loving and welcoming librarian at St. Margaret's, LaReine High School, and Bishop McNamara High School before retiring to become a full-time "nana."
Bobbie was a mother in the truest sense of the word, not only to her biological family but also to neighborhood kids and countless students whose lives she touched. She was renowned for her hearty country breakfasts on Sunday and the magical moments she created on Christmas mornings. Her heart was as vast as the sky, and she consistently placed the well-being of others above her own. Bobbie cherished every moment spent with her family, especially her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed outings to Denny's for breakfast, dinners with her Johnny, testing her luck at the slots with her sister and nieces and nephew, and being an extraordinary mother to her two children. Her love extended even to her furry companions, and her generosity knew no bounds as she supported numerous charities with the purest of intentions.
Bobbie leaves behind a treasure trove of cherished memories in the hearts of many, including her loving and devoted husband, Johnny; her son, Mark S. Baker, and his wife, Tonya; her daughter, Victoria L. Keithline, and her husband, Marty; her sister, Patricia A. Schossler. Her legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren: Martinez S.E. Baker and his wife, Juliet; Monee D. Baker; Shae-Lynn E. Warren and her husband, Thierno; Simone D. Baker; and James A. Warren. Her great-grandchildren, Xavier S.E. Baker, Nusaybah Y. Diallo, Ruby C.L. Baker, and Abdullah Y. Diallo brought immense joy to her life. Bobbie's love also extended to a host of nieces, nephews, and close family friends. Bobbie was preceded in death by her parents, as well as two brothers, Floyd E. Brown, affectionately known as "Bunky," and Leroy E. Brown.
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Barbara Lee Baker's life was a testament to love, kindness, and generosity.
She touched the lives of many and will forever remain in our hearts. In celebrating her life, we find solace in the beautiful memories she left behind.
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To Our Dearest Bobbie, Mom, Nana,
The world has dimmed with your departure, and our hearts ache with the void that your absence has left. We will miss your warm embrace, your comforting presence, and the boundless love that you showered upon us each day. You were the heart and soul of our family, and your legacy of love and selflessness will forever be etched in our hearts.
Your daily "Nana News" and Happy Birthday serenades will be missed. Your stories, advice, and anecdotes were a daily source of inspiration and laughter. Your wisdom and the way you embraced life were a beacon of light for us all. Your memory will live on in the stories you shared, the lessons you imparted, and the love that you instilled in every one of us.
As we bid our final farewell, we do so with heavy hearts, but also with gratitude for having had the privilege of sharing our lives with such an extraordinary soul. Your kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will continue to guide us in our daily lives.
We love you more than words can express, and your memory will be a cherished treasure that we hold close to our hearts, always and forever.
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Pridgen Funeral Home Chapel
Public Visitation: 9:30 - 11:30 AM
Interment: Private
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