Shirley Evon Campbell Baker, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering strength. Born in Walton County, Florida on February 15, 1938, Shirley lived a life defined by compassion, quiet wisdom, and deep faith. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age, a foundation that guided her life and inspired those around her. She graduated from Tivoli High School in 1956, where she was a part of the Homecoming court and the school band. She had strong affection for her Tivoli classmates and often looked forward to attending class reunions and casual get-togethers, where she could reconnect and reminisce. Shirley was united in marriage to Charles Baker, Sr. in 1957, with whom she shared a life of love, world travel, and cherished memories. Together, they had three children, building a home filled with love, warmth, and strong values. A passionate and dedicated educator, she believed in the power of learning and touched many lives through her work. Her commitment to personal growth led her to earn her Associate of Arts (AA) degree later in life from Okaloosa Walton Community College, a remarkable achievement that served as a powerful motivation to her family and community. Shirley was a faithful servant as a member of Macedonia Baptist Church of Argyle, where she proudly served as an usher and second soprano in the choir. Always welcoming others with a warm smile and a gentle spirit, she was a beautiful soul, giving and loving. Shirley’s grace and empathy made her a trusted and comforting presence in the lives of all whom knew her. She was a safe harbor to many. At home, Shirley found joy in the simple pleasures, spending time with her family, cooking delicious meals, sewing and enjoying family games.
Number four of twelve children and the first daughter, Shirley was predeceased by her parents, Angus and Zella Campbell,; and several of her siblings: John Campbell, Carl Campbell, Glenn Campbell, Joyce Laurel, and Vernice King.
Cherishing her memory are three devoted children: Cerrito Denna King, Charles Baker, Jr. (Pamelar), and Kimberly Lorraine Baker. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Michael Kelyshia Yvonne Byrd (James), Justin Alexander King and Alexa Braham Baker. As a doting great grandmother to Kenneth Xavier Charles Davis, Kelly Makiyah Elise Davis, Kalo Edward King, and King James Paul Byrd, she will be fondly remembered. She is remembered dearly by her brothers and sisters, George Campbell (Betty), Burell Campbell (Anne), Vernon Campbell, James Campbell, Belinda Daniels, Marcus Campbell; and sister-in-law, Mae Campbell. Shirley also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends whose lives were touched by her kindness and generous heart. Her memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all those who knew and loved her.
A time of visitation will be held Thursday, May 15, 2025 in the chapel of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home, 1474 State Highway 83 North, DeFuniak Springs, Florida from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 16, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church, 1063 Circle Drive, DeFuniak Springs, Florida, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Committal will follow at Pleasant Grove cemetery.
Flowers are being accepted or donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, www.parkinson.org, in her honor.
Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins of DeFuniak Springs.
