Bette Baker

Bette R. Baker, aged 95, of Arkadelphia, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025. Born on December 2, 1930, in Gentry, Arkansas, she was the daughter of the late Earl and Lena Mae (Green) Thomas. As a young adult, Bette was a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star of Arkansas (359 Gentry Chapter).

Together with her sister, Eula Mae, and brother-in-law, John, Bette co-founded and managed the Garden Gate nursery center, committed to offering Arkadelphia a high-quality gardening and landscape design resource. Despite lacking formal training in horticulture or landscaping, she possessed an innate talent for landscape design and plant selection. Known for her willingness to share her knowledge, Bette contributed to the beauty of numerous homes and businesses in the Arkadelphia and Hot Springs area.

In addition to her work in horticulture, Bette was an enthusiastic artist who actively participated in the Arkadelphia art community and volunteered at the Arkadelphia Arts Center for several years.

She was predeceased by her brother, Raymond Thomas of Longview, TX, and her sister, Eula Mae of Arkadelphia. She is survived by her son Dean Baker and his wife Jill, of Snohomish, Washington.

Visitation is scheduled from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel. Graveside services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Clark County. Arrangements are under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Home – Arkadelphia/Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel, www.smithfamilycares.com.