James K. Baker, 78, of Lancaster, husband of Linda Ballard Baker, passed away Thursday, December 30, 2021 at his home surrounded by loved ones. Born Friday, June 4, 1943 in Garrard County, he was the son of the late James F. & Edith Preston Baker. He was a former buyer for Whirlpool & Matsushita, and a member of Buena Vista Baptist Church. James was a volunteer firefighter and EMT, a Red Cross CPR first aid instructor, a DES member, part of Boy Scouts Troop 180, and a Kentucky Colonel. He was also a member of NRA & NAA, a Patriot Guard member, a qualified Olympic archer, a member of the Christian Motorcycle Club, a whirlpool bowling team member, and a volunteer for many other groups and organizations.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Patricia Shearer; half-brother, David Preston; two grandchildren, Sara & Justin Helton. Survivors other than his wife include a son, Shane (Melissa) Baker, of Danville; daughter, Lisa (Chris) Strevels, of Lancaster; sisters, Joann (Jackie) Tudor, Bonnie (Billy) Denham, both of Stanford, Sue (James) Poynter, Judy (the late James) Lowry, Billie Jean (Roger) Tillett, all of Lancaster; grandchildren, Jessica Helton, Mason & Seth Baker, Abby Strevels, Casey Strevels; great-grandchildren, Madison & Westlee Carpenter, Zayne & Brennan Graham, Kennedi, Aaliyah & Alivia Robinson.

Funeral services will be 1:00 PM Wednesday, January 5, 2021 at Lancaster Church of the Nazarene, with Dr. Brad King officiating and burial following at Lancaster Cemetery. Pallbearers include John Ferry , Bob Miniard, Donnie Miniard,  Billy Poore, Ron Goens & Billy Boyd. Honorary pallbearers will be all of his friends, and the members of the various groups he was in. Visitation will be held from 4:00-8:00 PM Tuesday, January 4, 2021 at Ramsey-Young Funeral Home, and from 10:00 AM until service time on Wednesday at the church. Friends & family may share memories or leave condolences on his tribute wall at : www.ramsey-young.com. Ramsey-Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.