Larry Furman Baker 1952-2019

Memorial services for Larry Furman Baker (66) of North Richland Hills[, Texas,] will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2019, at Forest Ridge Funeral Home Memorial Park Chapel.

Larry passed away suddenly on March 13, 2019, at home. He was born on October 19, 1952, to Willie Frank and Pauline Baker in Montgomery, Alabama.

Larry’s career passion was railroading. As a teenager, he worked for the family railroad construction company. After graduation from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!), he was hired by the Burlington Northern Railroad into its training program. His career took his family to St. Paul; Spokane; McCook, NE; Lincoln, NE; Chicago, Denver, Galesburg, IL; and then to Fort Worth where he retired after 35 years.

Larry’s life passion was his family, and everything else paled in comparison. He met Karen Miller, the love of his life when they were 12 years old and they came close to celebrating 47 years of marriage.

He adored each of his children – Jeremy and wife Heather of Wynne, Arkansas; Ben and wife Kristi of Wichita Falls, Texas; and Brett Baker-Roberson and husband Daniel of North Richland Hills.

He was blessed beyond measure by his grandchildren: Taylor, Kylie, Sean, Cole, Landry, Luke, Davis, Hannah, Benjamin, Adeline, Miles, and Hayes. His beloved sister and brother-in-law, Leisa and Gary, were traveling partners and, more importantly, the best of friends.

Larry’s eternal passion was knowing Jesus as his personal savior and being sure of his eternity with the Lord. He tried to exhibit a character pleasing to the Lord and one which would be a testimony to others. Without reservation, he knew his final destination.

His extended family includes sister Paulette and husband Ron Phillips; brother Frank Baker and wife Blanche, brother Dennis Baker and wife Kim, and brother Burt Baker.

He was blessed through marriage to be loved by mother-in-law Nelda Miller, Mike and Gloria Miller, Jill and Tom Wachs, Martha and Allen Bryan, Regina and George Ford, Lou Anne, and Del Downey, and Beth and Robert Turner. He was grateful for numerous friends who provided support and friendship over his lifetime.

While his family grieves his absence, they celebrate his homecoming to the arms of Jesus. The family gratefully acknowledges many prayers and kind expressions of love and concern.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Presbyterian Children’s Home and Services. Donations can be made online at www.giving.pchas.org. Please note the donation is a memorial for Larry Baker or donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 140888, Austin, Texas 78714-9981 and designated in memory of Larry Baker.