Roberta Annette Baker, age 77, of Hohenwald, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025. She was born on September 11, 1947, in Hohenwald to the late Jethro Baxter and Thelma Lucille Haley.
Annette was the beloved wife of the late Cecil Baker. The two were married on February 11, 1968, and shared 44 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they built a life rich in memories, especially their time spent camping and fishing off their pontoon boat at the river—a pastime that brought her great joy.

Throughout her life, Annette wore many hats. She sold Avon, Tupperware, and Mary Kay with a gift for connecting with others. She worked in several local factories before settling into her true calling: substitute teaching. For 31 years, Annette faithfully served the students of Lewis County Schools. Known for her sharp eyes (some swore she had them in the back of her head), her warm yet firm presence left a lasting impression on generations of students. Even into adulthood, many fondly remembered her as one of the most loyal and unforgettable substitutes they ever had.

Annette had a big personality and an even bigger heart. She was a hoot to be around, a vivid storyteller, and always ready for a good game of cards, especially Bunco and Canasta. She loved playing Bingo and made frequent, spirited trips to Tunica, where her luck once paid off in the form of a shiny, brand-new red Dodge Charger, purchased in all cash. She cherished that car—until one of her grandchildren infamously backed into it, leaving behind a dent and a story that never stopped being retold.

She loved her family deeply and created countless memories with them, especially in her backyard pool. Annette taught many children how to swim, and her pool became a cherished gathering place full of laughter, splashes, and love.

Annette’s strength, wit, and unwavering loyalty to those she cared for will be deeply missed. Her stories, her laughter, and her legacy of love and teaching will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Annette is survived by her daughter Denise Webb, son Dale Baker, grandchildren Kristy Grinder, Kashia O’Guin, Hayley Mathis, Chelsea Cotham & Shelly Webb, great grandchildren Reagan Grippi, Bentley & Boone Mathis, Harper Gibbs, Aubree, Acelyn & Abel Cotham, Scarlett & Ashton Gibbs, Marlee Roush, Aspyn O’Guin and Hayden Jackson.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Cecil Ervin Baker, brother Robert Lee Baxter, sister Lorene McClain, sister Darlene Grinder and sister Charlotte Battles.

Visitation with the family will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025 from 4:30 – 8:00 PM at McDonald Funeral Home – Lewis County.  Funeral Services will be held on Friday, July 18. 2025 beginning at 10:30 AM at McDonald Funeral Home – Lewis County.  Burial will immediately follow in the Swiss Cemetery, Hohenwald, TN.