Loretta Lee Baker

Loretta Lee Baker, a dedicated nurse and beloved family member, passed away on May 31, 2025, in Liberty City. She was born on October 31, 1945, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and spent her early years in Phoenix, Arizona, where she graduated from Sunnyslope High School.

Loretta's caring nature and commitment to helping others shone through in her nursing career, where she made a significant impact in the lives of those she cared for. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she embraced life with passion and joy. Loretta enjoyed visiting Galveston, engaging in gardening, fishing, and spending quality time with her beloved cats. Most importantly, she cherished the moments she spent with her family, which brought her the greatest happiness.

Loretta is survived by her children—Selina Hughey; Stacey and Jeff Burns; Carla Hughey; Dena Hughey; Tracey and Danny Willamson; Donna Jones and Chris Modisette; Rhonda Modisette and fiancé Chris Smith; Jay and Amanda Craven; and Alice and Richard Garcia—as well as her stepchildren, Daniel, Cindy, and Mary. Her siblings include her sister Brenda and brothers Doug and Greg. Loretta's legacy will also live on through her numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. Additionally, her lifelong best friend, Miss Alice, will remember the cherished moments they shared throughout the years.

Loretta is preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Alice Wickman; her sisters Maurine, Phyillis, and Marlene; her brother Alfred; her husband, Bud Baker; and her great-grandson, Brendan. Each of these individuals played a significant role in her life, and their memories will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the visitation on June 3, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore, Texas. A funeral service will be held the following day, Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Rader Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Chad Richardson officiating. The burial will follow at the Rusk County Memorial Gardens.