Robert "Bob" Baker, Sr.

Robert “Bob” Herman Baker Sr., 82, of Beebe, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, in Searcy at the House of Three, where he had been residing since May 15th, surrounded by family and the compassionate care of the staff and the support of Gentiva Hospice.

Bob was born on June 21st, 1943, to Wallace and Mary Dobbins Baker in Searcy, Arkansas. He is survived by his son Robert H. Baker Jr., (Tracy); and his daughter, Marci Baker-Cox (Bill); his sisters, Jeannie Baker Latture and Nancy Baker Dacus; granddaughter, Mattie Watson Cox; and grandson, Drew Cox; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years LaRea Baker (March 5th, 2026) and his parents Wallace H. Baker and Mary Dobbins Baker.

Bob’s family moved from Searcy to Beebe in 1952, where they became members of First United Methodist Church. Bob remained a devoted member and attended church there for more than 74 years. He later graduated with the Class of 1961 from Beebe High School, where he was an all-sport athlete and a proud Beebe Badger.

A lifelong resident proud of his roots in Beebe, Bob devoted many years to serving his community. He gave 40 years of service to the Housing Authority, served as an alderman on the City Council, served on the Beebe Parks Committee, and dedicated 15 years of service to the Water Committee.

On November 20, 1962, Bob was honorably discharged from the Air National Guard of Arkansas and the Reserve of the United States Air Force following a horrific car accident in June 1962, that left him unable to complete his three-year commitment. Despite this hardship, he carried strength and determination throughout his life.

Bob dedicated more than 25 years, alongside his father, working at Wallace Baker Chevrolet in Beebe. Over the years, he served as a car salesman, managed the parts and service department, operated the wrecker service, and even repaired vehicles in the body shop. He took great pride in his work and in serving his community.

Bob enjoyed riding horses, antique cars, NASCAR, building and driving race cars at the Beebe Racetrack, trout fishing, eating ice cream, and was an avid Razorback fan. He was also quite an artist who loved to paint and draw. Above all, he was a loving and devoted son, big brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice and the House of Three for the loving, compassionate, and excellent care they provided. Their kindness, comfort, and support during this time will always be deeply appreciated.

In lieu of flowers contribution can be made to the First United Methodist Church in Beebe or Arkansas Foodbank https://arkansasfoodbank.org

Visitation will be held on Saturday June 20th, 2026, from 10:00-12:00pm at First United Methodist Church in Beebe immediately followed by a memorial service at 12:00pm. Committal will be held at 2:30pm at Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, Beebe. To view the online register: www.smithfamilycares.com