Carl Edward Baker

Reverend Carl Baker (78) was born on May 11,1947 and went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 15, 2026. He was known to most as Brother Baker, was a man whose life was defined by love, faith, and service to others. Born in Pike County, Kentucky, Carl grew up as one of six children- three of whom were his half-siblings, whom he cherished as much as his own sisters and brother.

 From a young age, he understood the sacrifices of a coal miner's family, learning the values of hard work and responsibility early on. After high school, Carl followed many others to Detroit, where he worked in the car factories, striving for a better life. It was during this time that he married his high school sweetheart, Deborah Maynard, and together they began their life in Lexington, Kentucky. Carl's career at the Kroger Company spanned twenty-six years, ultimately earning the role of store manager. As Carl's life unfolded, he felt a powerful calling to the ministry. In response, he pursued his ministerial license and dedicated 21 years of service to various churches, where the Lord blessed his work abundantly. His ministries touched many lives, and Carl was privileged to go on several foreign mission trips, further deepening his faith and impact on others. He retired in 2010 while serving at the Church of the Nazarene in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky.

 Carl's greatest joy, however, was serving alongside his wife, Deborah, for over fifty-nine years. Their shared commitment to the Lord was the greatest fulfillment of Carl's life. He delighted in watching their children grow up to serve the Lord and cherished raising their eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren with the same strong faith that defined his own life. Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Maynard Baker, his son Chris (Andrea) Baker of Lexington, KY, daughters Sarah (Nick) Pannell of Goshen, KY, Susan (Kevin) Eloy of Centerville, MA, and daughter-in-law Lynne Baker of Richmond, KY. In addition to his children, Carl leaves behind eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy. Carl was preceded in death by his sister Neva Bentley, his brother Joseph Baker, his half-sister Norene Anderson Vanover, his half-brother Paul Anderson, and his parents, Ruben and Lona Baker. He will most of all be welcomed into Heaven by his youngest son, Brian Baker.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the True Life Community Church of the Nazarene, 212 Winn Street, Mt. Sterling, KY 40353 on Saturday, February 21. Visitation will be from 1pm-3pm followed by a brief service. 212 Winn Street, Mt. Sterling, KY 40353 on Saturday, February 21. Vi

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Nazarene Missions to support the Youth for Missions trips.

 Known by many names: Brother Carl, Pastor Baker, Dad, Papaw- he lived a life full of love, faith, and hard work. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, and although he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.