John Baker

Elzey John Baker Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on January 13, 2026, at the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home in Jennings, Louisiana, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 3, 1943, in Jennings, LA, and proudly remained a lifelong resident of this close-knit community.

John graduated from Jennings High School and went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree in Pharmacy from Northeast Louisiana University in Monroe. An accomplished athlete, he ran track in college and was part of a World Record holding mile relay team. He dedicated many years to the pharmacy profession, serving the Jennings community as a pharmacist for many years.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, John was deeply involved in community service. He served as a city council member for 16 years and was the longest-serving member on the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy. A faithful member of Our Lady Help of Christians Church, he taught catechism and was a proud Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. John also served his country as a proud Army Veteran. He will be remembered for his zest for life, generosity, and commitment to family and community. His joyfulness and loving spirit were felt by all who knew him.

He cherished his family and is survived by his loving wife, Donita Baker; his children: Eric (Tony) Baker-Aidukas, Geri (Darrin) Futch, Lori (Jack) Haller, Brad (Angela) Baker, Erin (Scott) Van Matre; as well as his grandchildren, Ryan, Alex, Kati, Madeline, Morgan, Zena, Noah, John Mason, Jake, Aiden, Joseph, Harper, Brooks, and Mollie; ten great grandchildren with one on the way; who will carry on his legacy of love and kindness. Also left to cherish their memories of him are his siblings, Barbara Hanks, Linda Hargroder, Jane Cloud, and Albert Baker.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Miguez Funeral Home on Friday January 16, 2026 at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A rosary will be held at the funeral home at 11:30 AM followed by a eulogy from his family. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church at 12:30 PM on the same day, with Father Keith Pellerin officiating. Following mass, he will be laid to rest in the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Miguez Funeral Home. 

The family invites all who knew and loved John to join in remembering his remarkable life, celebrating the joy he brought to others, and honoring his unwavering dedication to his family and community.

John was preceded in death by his parents Elzey Baker and Cora Myers Baker; and his brothers, Paul and Billy Baker.