Jerry Lee Baker was born November 20, 1952 in Des Moines, Iowa the son of Perry Robert and Ruth Sadie (Merical) Baker.

Jerry was raised in Adel and graduated from Adel High School in 1971. He married his high school sweetheart Sandy (Barcus) Baker. While they were apart in recent years, their long history together remained a meaningful part of his life story.

Jerry worked several jobs Standard Oil Station, Lovell Richards and Dallas County Road Department. Jerry left the Dallas County Road Department when he had a life-altering brain aneurysm that left him paralyzed on his left side in his thirties.

Later in life, he faced additional physical challenges. Despite the hardships he endured, he continued to live life on his own terms, showing determination and resilience through the many obstacles he faced.

Those who knew Jerry will remember his dry sense of humor, quick wit, and cantankerous nature that somehow made people smile even when he was giving them a hard time. Beneath his stubborn exterior was a man who experienced life with strength, grit, and authenticity.

Jerry enjoyed drag racing and loved his Chicago Bears. Jerry loved the Bears so much he named his chow chow Bear.

Jerry passed away Friday, May 8, 2026 at Accura of Knoxville at the age of 73 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Perry and Ruth and wife, Sandra (Barcus) Baker.

Those left to remember Jerry include many friends and cousins.

Memorials in Jerry’s memory may be made to AHeinz57 Pet Rescue & Transport of De Soto or the Marion County Humane Society of Knoxville.