Tommy Lee Baker's Obituary
"Baker", age 83, a beloved member of the Tulsa community, passed away on January 30th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, creativity, and passion.
Tommy Lee Baker was born in Pryor, Oklahoma to George and Helen (Ward) Baker.
He grew up with his three brothers George, Jim, and Mac. As a teen, he was inspired by his brother George to join the Navy. After graduating from Strang High, Tom immediately joined the Navy and served as an airplane mechanic on aircraft carrier(s) USS Coral Sea (CV-43) and USS Ticonderoga (CV-14). From 1958 through 1962, on the decks of these ships he saw the world for the first time.
Tom attended Tulsa University and earned an associate degree in business administration, furthering his career as manager of Printing and Forms Inventory at The Williams Companies.
He “retired” from Williams…but never stopped working.
Tom was a man of many talents and interests. He had a deep love for writing books and a thirst for knowledge, particularly when it came to history and Egyptology. Additionally, he was an avid golfer for many years and found solace and joy while on the green.
When Baker was 79 years young, he reconnected with his high school sweetheart Carolyn Tunin. Within 8 months they were married, and Baker was the happiest man alive. As a couple they loved ordering door dash, watching football, and playing Spinners once a week (on Tuesday's). Tuesday was Baker’s favorite day of the week!
A true people person, Baker never met a stranger. He had a special gift for bringing joy to those around him. His “happy” was infectious and perhaps the very reason he touched so many lives. He could lift the spirits of anyone in his presence.
Baker passed away due to cancer. Just like he dealt with all experiences in life, he managed his illness with strength and grace, and wanted to spend as much time with his loved ones as possible. On his final day, he was surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and his wife Carolyn, “who he adored more than anything else in the world.”
Being a kind person and dependable father was of the utmost importance to Baker and he certainly did not disappoint when it came to wholeheartedly loving his family.
In addition to his wife Carolyn; and his three children, Tommie, Kevin, and Tina;
Baker is survived by his brother Mac Baker; his five grandchildren, Zoey, Perry, Garrison, Malachi, and Daisha; as well as his only great grandchild, Mason.
Most of this family are better known by their very special “nicknames” only Baker could give.
Baker is preceded in death by his parents, brother George Baker and brother Jim Baker.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 1st, 2024, from 5-7 PM at Floral Haven Funeral Home.
Funeral service will be held Friday, February 2nd, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Floral Haven Funeral Home-Chapel
Family Reception to follow services from 11:30-1:30 PM
Interment to follow at Spavinaw Strang Cemetery at 3:00 PM in Spavinaw, OK
What’s your fondest memory of Tommy?
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Share a story where Tommy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Tommy you’ll never forget.
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