Barbara Sue Baker

Barbara Sue Baker, of Bonne Terre, MO, passed away on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the age of 88. She was born on Friday, August 4, 1937, in Springfield, MO to the late Granville R. “Bus” and Lamona A. (Mayfield) Andrews.

On August 24, 1958, Barbara was united in marriage to Richard Lee “Dick” Baker, and they shared 67 years of marriage, building a life centered on love, faith and devotion to their family.

Barbara earned a BS in Education from Southwest Missouri State University and a master’s degree from Webster University. She taught French, English, and Reading in the North St. Francois R1 School district for nearly 40 years until her retirement in 1997. She used to say, “I’ve taught every grade except for kindergarten.”

She was a devoted longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Bonne Terre, where she found joy playing the piano, singing in the choir and managing the church’s donations to the Operation Christmas Child ministry. She loved antique shopping, reading, decorating her home, needlework, and scrapbooking. For many years, she enjoyed hosting all her children and grandchildren for Christmas where she would always make sure everyone’s stocking was filled with goodies. According to her children (and grandchildren), she made the best sugar cookies and Chex Mix.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Roberta Jean (Richard) Erhardt.

She is survived by her loving husband Dick, three children, John Robert “Rob” (Mary Jo) Baker, Richard Todd “Rick” (Cathy) Baker, Angela Dawn “Angie” (Tim) Thorn, sisters Mona Gail (Sid) Werges, Betty Jo “BJo” (Harley) Snyder, 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Barbara will be remembered for her love of family. She adored her grandchildren, and they brought her great joy. She will also be remembered for her quiet strength and devotion to her faith.

The family is grateful to the staff of BJC Parkland hospice for their care, kindness and support.

Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church Bonne Terre, 41 E School Street, Bonne Terre, MO. 63628, on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 PM., with Pastor Alan David officiating. Interment will follow at St Francois Memorial Park in Bonne Terre, MO.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara’s memory to Baptist Homes of Arcadia Valley, the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home, or BJC Hospice.