William Justin “Will” Baker, 49, was born on November 15, 1976, in Russellville, AL and died peacefully at home surrounded by friends and family on September 5, 2026.
Will graduated from Phil Campbell High School in 1995 and Wallace State College in 1997. He excelled in machine technology and thoroughly enjoyed his line of work. He began his career as a machinist and gradually progressed to the title of Quality Engineer. He was employed by General Dynamics for 17 years and Dynetics for the past 5 years. He traveled to several different states for training and was constantly learning and bettering himself. During his career he made lasting friendships with many co-workers.
Will had many interests and hobbies. First and foremost, he enjoyed being with his family and friends. He loved to entertain with his outstanding cooking and grilling talents. His bar-be-que was loved by all who ate it. He was a paintball enthusiast and played team paintball with Pathogen Paintball team in Decatur. They played all throughout the southeast, winning several titles and trophies. Will also loved music, collecting records and riding motorcycles. He loved Jimmy Buffett’s music and lived the Island Lifestyle, usually arriving at his destination at a slow pace and often wearing a Hawaiian shirt. Will could repair absolutely anything technological, from vintage turntables to phones, and was heavily relied on by everyone.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his parents Anthony and Chiquita Baker, his children Cade and Belle Baker, brother Jessie Baker (Brianna), mother of his children Stephanie Baker (Darrel), special friend Tracy Andrews and a host of family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Eugene and Elizabeth Baker and his maternal grandparents R. B. and Sis. Sims.
Visitation will be at Pleasant Hill Church, 10366 County Road 81 in Phil Campbell, from 10:00 – 12:00 on Monday, September 7, 2026, with the funeral to follow. Burial will be at East Franklin Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Joel Bradley, Andy Hallman, Johnny Dill, Lyle Garrison, Jarriod Baker, Terry Zills, and Willi Cummings. Honorary Pallbearers are Bo Speer, Chris Turner, and Jerrod Morgan.
The family would like to extend their most sincere thanks to the staff of UAB Hospital and Hospice of North Alabama, and especially Brittni for their kind treatment during this difficult time. We’d also like to thank the friends and family that visited, brought food or comforted us.
