Melvin James Baker, Sr., a 72-year-old resident of Carthage, IL, passed away at 5:45 a.m. Friday, Feb. 12, 2021, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.
Funeral services will be held at a later date in Trenton.
Melvin was born June 17, 1948, the son of Elza and Isabelle Goff Baker in Princeton.
He was united in marriage to Betty Elaine Saul on May 12, 1967 in Chillicothe. She survives of Carthage, IL.
He drove for various trucking companies over the years. Melvin enjoyed hunting, fishing and horseback riding and was a long-time member of the Hancock County Saddle Club in Carthage. He also enjoyed car racing and his Dodge Charger. He especially enjoyed time with his grandchildren and great- grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Jody (Gale) Blackwell of Carthage; grandchildren, Anthony Baker, Kristina Wurster and Brandon Blackwell; great- grandchildren, Aeryess and James Baker, Riley and Emmalyn Kenney and Briella Bailey; one brother, Rev. Earl Wayne (Joan) Baker of Green Castle; a sister, Beverly Coon of Trenton; sisters-in-law, Marjorie (Rollie) Madison of Des Moines, IA and Martha McEntire of Harrison, AR; brothers-in-law, Melvin (Karen) Saul of Trenton and Marvin (Sally) Saul of Wisconsin; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Melvin “Jimmy” Baker, Jr; and a brother-in-law, Larry Saul of Galt.
Memorials may be directed to the Hancock County Saddle Club. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.