January 24, 2026 at 7:35 a.m.
James "Jim" Baker, 79, Hope
By Norman Funeral Home
James “Jim” Baker, 79, of Hope, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at Compass Park Masonic Home in Franklin.
Born on June 16, 1946 in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Jim was the son of Jack P. and Mary Lee Coffey Baker. He married Linda Murray on July 12, 1969 and she preceded him in death on March 27, 2024.
Jim served in the United States Navy. He was employed as a factory worker at Cummins until retirement.
He was a member of First Baptist Church of Hope and Junior Chamber International.
Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, being outdoors, and watching Westerns. He enjoyed attending and being involved at church. Jim loved being with his family and especially enjoyed his grandchildren.
Survivors include his children, James Baker Jr. of Hope, Dale (Shauna) Baker of Seymour, and Hannelore (Alexis) Baker of Hope; grandchildren, James Alan (Alisha) Baker of Elizabethtown, Timothy Baker of Columbus, Savannah (Jaylin) Mercer of Seymour, Danika Fields of Seymour, and Davina Mercer of Columbus; great-grandchildren, Eli, Sianna, Magnolia, Vada, Weston, Audrey, Trevor, Finley, and Dahlia; siblings, Sandy (Steve) Prather of Crothersville, Suzette Ferguson of Idaho, and Gary Baker of Columbus; sister-in-law, Hannelore Hutter; and several nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, Clint Baker; and sister, Paulette Baker.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 27 at 6 p.m. at Norman Funeral Home with Pastor Dennis Chasteen officiating. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Military rites will be conducted by the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard. Cremation is planned following services.
Memorial contributions may be given to First Baptist Church of Hope.
Online condolences may be sent to the Baker Family at www.normanfuneralhome.net.
