Joe was wonderful man who taught his children and grandchildren the value of hard work, honestly, and love of family. 

 In the early 70’s he was transferred to Randolph AFB from Shepherd. That next summer, Joe and Lea bought the house in Schertz, that they’re still in to this day. Joe retired from the Air Force and eventually retired from Civil service doing the same job as he did when he was active duty. Joe did tours in Vietnam and Korea, and needless to say he was an American hero. 

He was also the best, dad, grandpa, uncle, cousin, friend, and husband you could ask for. He loved and looked out for his family. He was born in Tom, Ok. On May 20, 1935 to Bessie and George Baker where he lived and attended school. He was one of 10 children. He enlisted in the AirForce as a young adult, and married Lela Heard on November 3, 1956. They had three children, Georgia, Randy & Sharon. 
Joe and Lea had been married for 65 years.

He was proceeded in death by his parents and his son Randy Joe. He is survived by his wife, Lela Baker, his daughters Georgia Baker and Sharon Harding. His grand children, great grandchildren, and countless nieces & nephews. He is loved by his family and was the best grandpa to his grandchildren, Danyel Boysen, Dorothy-Lea Ramirez, Lela Brooke Reed, And Brandy Reed. And his great grandchildren, Dylan, and Blake. He loved his daughter in law Darlene Yamin-Baker and her beautiful children and grandchildren. 

He had fought and beat cancer before but it came back with a vengeance and he could fight no more. Lea never left his side and cared for him better than any nurse. There will be a viewing on August 22 from 5-7 pm.  at Schertz Funeral Home, and  he will be laid to rest the following day  at 10:30am at Ft. Sam Houston cemetary with full military honors. Anyone who still works at Randolph, we would appreciate if you would Share this on your page, as he had many friends at the base and the family feels they should all have this information.