Mary Baker

Mary Catherine Kildow Long Baker, age 70 of Hamilton went home to be with our Lord on Thursday, May 22, 2008. She was born on August 27, 1937 in Zanesville, Ohio, the daughter of James and Mary (Shanley) Kildow; Mary was raised by her mother and loving, devoted stepfather, Alvie C. Long. Schools attended by Mary while growing up were St. Mary’s Catholic, St. Stephen’s Church School, South Zanesville Grade School, and Roosevelt Junior High. On July 18, 1951 in New Miami, she married Walker R. Baker, and he preceded her in death in 1999. Mary was a devoted housewife, mother and grandmother. She worked as a telephone operator for approximately ten years. Mary enjoyed sewing, flowers (especially roses), and cats. She loved bluegrass, country, rock and gospel music. Mary never met a stranger, and enjoyed talking to people.

She is survived by two daughters, Sarah Jen Gibson of Hamilton and Betty Lou Baker of Fairfield; two very devoted and loving granddaughters, Marian Yvonne Perkins and Elva Cathleen Withrow; two sisters, Loma Herron and Natalie Harding, both of Zanesville; and two brothers, Willard (Cheryl) Kildow and Karl (Peggy) Kildow, both of Zanesville. She was preceded in death by her parents and stepfather; an infant daughter; two sisters, Ruby Evans and Laura Guadagna; a brother, James Kildow; a devoted and loving son-in-law, Marion "Junebug" Gibson Jr.; beloved friend Patty Allen of Parkside Nursing Home; and her companion and dear friend, Eugene Gibson.

Funeral service will be held at the Brown-Dawson Funeral Home, 330 Pershing Home, on Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at 10:00 AM with Rev. Jacob Flannery officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Mary’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Parkside Nursing Home, Mercy Hospital ICU, Dr. Robert Cucinotta, Dr. William Krall, and many friends and family members for their support and concern.