Birdia “Birdy” Etta Baker

Birdia Etta Payne Baker, affectionately known as "Birdy," was a beacon of love and generosity, whose kindhearted spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on March 1, 1933, in the small town of Paynesville, WV, Birdy was a shining example of unwavering devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. Her journey on earth came to a peaceful close on June 29, 2024, in Bluefield, WV, where she was surrounded by the love of her family.

Birdy's life was one of purpose and joy, shared with Harrison Baker, her loving husband of 68 years, who stood by her side through life's many seasons. Together, they built a family legacy that included their cherished children: daughter Dianna Baker Tilley; their late daughter Susie Gail Baker; son John Kenneth Baker and his wife Anita; and son Charles William Baker and his wife Julie, whom Birdy adored as another daughter. Birdy's role as a mother extended to others she loved and nurtured, including James and Billy French, and Tony Jones and his wife Mindy.

The matriarch of a large and loving family, Birdy was the proud grandmother to a host of grandchildren: Michael Caldwell and his wife Lacie, Nathan Caldwell and his wife Julie, John Kenneth Baker Junior and his wife Samantha, Joshua Baker and his wife Jerrica, Erika Baker Skillen and her husband Davie, Harley Baker Pearl and her husband Zach. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her great-grandchildren: Corbin, Connor, Bryce, and Autumn Caldwell; Cassidee and Rowen Baker; and Liam Skillen, Clayton, and Kinley Baker. Birdy's legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on through each of them. 

Birdy was the daughter of the late Martha Lester and Garson Payne. She was the cherished sister to Irene Hagerman and Belva Baker, both deceased, as well as to her surviving sisters Ella Mae Hineline and Carol Lester. Their bonds were a source of strength and comfort throughout her life.
Birdy's education concluded with the 8th grade at Kennedy School in Paynesville, WV, but her wisdom and talents far exceeded the confines of traditional schooling. She was an accomplished seamstress and decorator, known for her impeccable craftsmanship and eye for beauty. Her work not only adorned homes but also brought warmth and elegance to the lives of those she served through her talents.

A woman of enduring faith, Birdy loved Jesus with all her heart. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence and guided her in every aspect of her life. She found solace and joy in sewing, a passion that allowed her to express her creativity and love for others. Birdy's hands were rarely still, as she was always creating something beautiful for her family or those in need. Her love for nature was evident in her care for her many flowers, which bloomed as brightly as her spirit. Those who knew Birdy will remember her as the embodiment of love, generosity, and kindness. Her warm presence was a comfort and her smile a light that could brighten the darkest of days. Birdy's life was a tapestry of love, woven with the threads of devotion, selflessness, and compassion.

As we bid farewell to Birdia Etta Payne Baker, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come. Her memory will be treasured in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Birdy's journey on earth has ended, but her story of love endures forever. Funeral services to celebrate the life of Birdy will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, July 6, 2024, from the Chapel of Fredeking Funeral Service, Oakvale, WV. Burial will follow in New Zion Cemetery.  Friends may visit with the family on Friday, July 5, 2024, from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Online condolences may be shared with the family via www.fredekingfs.com. The Baker family is being served by Fredeking Funeral Service in Oakvale, WV.

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