Jack Baker

Cabot, VT: Pastor Jack D. Baker, age 83, of Cabot, passed away on Saturday morning, November 24, 2018, in St. Johnsbury, VT, following an extended illness after a fall.

Jack was born in Neosho, MO, on January 29, 1935, son to the late John Wood and Lillian (Jennings) Baker. He grew up in Gorham and Lancaster, NH, graduating from Lancaster Academy in 1953.  He went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Atlantic Union College in S. Lancaster, MA.

On November 29, 1958 Jack married the former Betty Ann Lumenello.  Jack’s teaching career ran from 1958-76, teaching in both public and private schools throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and New Jersey before turning to his calling of preaching the gospel of Jesus.

Jack’s life in Ministry first brought him to Vermont where he was pastor of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Barre, Randolph and S. Newbury for 4 years.  He served throughout Northern New England in each state but returned to his beloved Vermont to his final years in service until retirement in church districts encompassing St. Johnsbury, Newport and Morrisville, before going back to Barre.  While in Barre he was instrumental in getting a multimillion dollar donation for the construction of the Central Vermont Academy. During his last assignment, he also served as Pastor at the Cabot United Church for 5 years.

Jack enjoyed reading and was musically talented, able to pick up and play any instrument, but his favorites were the autoharp and harmonica. His true loves on this earth were sharing his love for the Lord, his family and making music.  He had the ability to use humor to make any situation better, which is sorely needed in today’s society.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Betty, of Cabot, a daughter: Jacqueline Baker, also of Cabot, 2 sons: John Baker and wife, LeAnne, of Jackson, TN, James Baker and wife, Holly, of Tampa, FL, a brother: Gerry Baker of Shelburne, NH, a sister: Jean Rines of Ontario, OR, 3 grandchildren: Christopher Baker, Toni Baker-Stephens, Jesse Baker, 2 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother: William Baker.

A Memorial Service will take place in warmer weather at the Cabot United Church with an outdoor luncheon to follow at the family home.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.saylesfh.com