A memorial mass was held 10/06/2022 at St. Rita’s Catholic Church with a Military Ceremony being held on 10/12/2022 at Miramar National Cemetery. Final arrangements were entrusted to Anderson Ragsdale Mortuary.
William Larry Baker (Larry), the fourth of thirteen children, was born on July 29, 1931, to
the late William Frederick Baker and Earmmie Bright in Ridgeland, SC. He made his
transition into eternal rest on Monday, September 12, 2022, at the Twain Residential
Home in San Diego, California. Larry, or “Brother” as he was fondly called by family,
was preceded in death by eight of his siblings: Everett, Harry, Benjamin, Charles, Helen,
Jessie, Lucille, and Eva.
Larry attended the public schools of Jasper County in Ridgeland. Upon graduating high
school, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He attained the rank of Electricians Mate and was honorably discharged in 1954 at Naval Base San Diego.
In September 1957, Larry and Charlene Thompson, who preceded him in death in 2018,
were joined in holy matrimony. They were blessed with two beautiful children: a daughter, Tara Rachelle, and a son, Andre Laurent “Larry” Boulanger, who preceded them in death in
2013. He and Charlene traveled with their family all over the USA, visiting national
parks, camping, and discovering the natural beauty of our country.
Larry was employed at Miramar Naval Air Station for over 30 years. He was a
member of St. Rita’s Catholic Church and enjoyed using his skills as a volunteer around the
parish for many years until his health declined. He was well known for his willingness to help family, neighbors, and friends.
Larry grew a variety of flowers, vegetables, and fruits. He was known for sharing exquisite
wines and brandy he created from his many fruit trees and vines. He loved jazz music and would visit jazz clubs when he traveled. Larry enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping, fishing, and sailing. Larry took many trips with family and friends on his boat and RV.
Larry leaves to cherish his memories a loving daughter, Tara Rachelle Baker of San
Diego; a brother, Samuel Baker (SC); three sisters: Mildred Laurel (GA), Edna Baker
(VA), and Irma Baker (NC); a sister-in-law, Janie Baker (SC); a brother-in-law, Alvin
Vinson (ND); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members, and friends.
