Michael Anton Baker, Sr. of Little Rock, Arkansas was born September 26, 1954 at Wright City, Missouri, the son of the late Eldoris Anton and Rosemary Hull Baker. He was a member of Grace Church at Hensley, and was a Little Rock Firefighter for 33 years.

Mr. Baker died Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at Mt. Ida, at the age of 66. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a nephew, Zach White.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Judy Baker of Little Rock; sons and daughters-in-law, Michael Jr. and Sandra Baker of Georgetown, Texas, Christopher and Ginger Baker of Sheridan, Nick and Emily Baker of East End; daughter and son-in-law, Stephanie and Darren Dutton of Sherwood; brother, Pat Baker of East End; sisters, Kathy Quarti of St. Cloud, Florida, Karen O'Cain of Cabot, Kris White of Heber Springs; grandchildren, Emily (Tucker), Mallory (Sean), Morgan (Corey), Hope, Carter, Maddi Beth, Gus, and Whitlee; great grandchildren, Nova and Cliff.

At 19 years old, Mike married his wife Judy, who was 18. No matter what came in life while having a big family and not a lot of money, they remained devoted to each other and committed to raising their children in a home filled with love and with God at the center. Mike and Judy developed a love for fishing and would spend weeks at a time camping and fishing Lake Ouachita. When not on the boat, they'd spend hours looking at the lake and talking. Mike couldn't resist an opportunity to pester Judy, and they had a lifetime of laughter. Mike loved Judy with all his heart and was proud of the family they'd raised together.

There is no other father, grandfather or great-grandfather more incredible than Mike. He would do anything for his kids and constantly put his own needs and desires last so that his kids had the best childhood possible. The eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren added to his family brought him incredible happiness and joy. Whether he was giving four wheeler or boat rides, fishing for the big one, or playing cars on the floor, Mike knew he was blessed to be their Papa.

Mike's devotion to Christ flowed out of him in all he did. Mike and Judy spent their lives loving God and loving people and were always very active in their church. Mike was selfless and could never walk away from someone in need. Whether helping single mothers in challenging times or mowing lawns and building wheelchair ramps for the elderly, Mike used his time and skills to serve those around him. He was active in the mission outreach ministry which included grounds keeping and teaching kids woodworking. He was an incredible example of how to live for Christ.

Mike was a Little Rock firefighter for 33 years and retired after serving as captain. Mike went to work each day to serve people and save lives, even though it meant putting his own on the line. Being a firefighter was his calling. He was proud of the career he had and all the friends he made over the years. In his community of East End, he served on the volunteer fire department board for many years, during which he helped oversee the building of a new fire station in the community.

Mike made an impact on people's lives during his time on earth. The world is a better place because he was here.

Special thanks to Arkansas Game and Fish, the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department and members of the dive team.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorials be made to Grace Church – Local Mission Fund, 24300 Hwy 167, Hensley, AR 72065 or Salem Cemetery.

The family would love any memories and pictures be sent to rememberingmikebaker@gmail.com .

Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870)942-1306

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Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at Grace Church (24300 Hwy 167, Hensley, Arkansas). Burial will follow in Salem Cemetery. Visitation is Monday at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Sheridan from 6:00-8:00 P.M.