Merle Eugene Baker

Sumter, SC ….. Merle Eugene Baker, age 97, passed away peacefully at his home in Sumter, South Carolina on September 15, 2021, surrounded by members of his loving family.

Raised on a dairy farm in central Ohio, he always had wonderful stories to share about living through the Great Depression.  As one of the Greatest Generation, he served in the United States Army Air Corps in the Pacific during World War II and retired in 1962 with the rank of Master Sergeant.  He continued his career in the U.S. Civil Service at Shaw Air Force Base, retiring in 1972.  Merle was a talented woodworker, building grandfather clocks and furniture for family and friends. He also volunteered at Sumter Habitat for Humanity, helping build over 100 homes in the area.  When he could no longer work, he remained a loyal visitor to the Habitat worksites, spreading both knowledge and humor.  Merle’s other hobbies included model railroading, stamp collecting and genealogy.  A devout Methodist and long-time member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Merle’s favorite Bible verse was Psalm 91 : “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty ....”

Loved by his family, he will be missed dearly.  He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 40 years Audrey Camilla (Millie) Baker; his adopted son, Jack Jones, and sister Betty Johnson.  He is survived by his loving grandchildren, Audrey and Brandon Jones, four great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and Alex, his constant canine companion.

A graveside service, with full military honors, will be held at Sumter Cemetery on Tuesday, September 21, at 2:00pm.

The Aldersgate Methodist Church Men’s Group will serve as pallbearers, and Pastor Laura Whitt, of Aldersgate, will officiate.  

You may view the service via live stream at www.bullockfuneralhome.com and going to the obituary page of Merle Eugene Baker.

You may go to www.bullockfuneralhome.com and sign the family’s guest book.

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.

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