Douglas Wayne Baker, Sr.

Douglas Wayne Baker, Sr., age 63, of Gary, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Longview, Texas. Douglas was born on September 20, 1962, in Pasadena, Texas, to the late Doyle Wayne and Jeanette Marie Mullins Baker. A lifelong resident of the Gary community, he graduated from Gary High School with the Class of 1981 and later pursued engineering studies in college. He also earned a certificate in criminal justice from the Kilgore Police Academy. On November 20, 1981, Douglas married the love of his life, Renita Kay Barr, in Gary, Texas. Together they built a loving family and shared more than 44 years of marriage. Douglas worked for many years at Gary Gas before joining O’Reilly Auto Parts in Carthage, where he advanced to the position of manager. He proudly served his country in the United States National Guard from 1983 to 1995. Equally committed to serving his community, Douglas was a member of the Gary Volunteer Fire Department from 1988 to 1995, served on the Lake Murvaul Water Board, and held the position of Chairman of the Panola County Republican Party.

A man who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, Douglas loved golfing, bowling, fishing, and playing pool. More than anything, he cherished time spent with his family. His greatest joy was his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly and never missed an opportunity to tease and agitate in his own playful way. His sense of humor, devotion to his family, and willingness to serve others left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Douglas was of the Baptist faith and remained deeply rooted in the community he called home throughout his life. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Tracey Baker, and his grandson, Brayden Morton.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Renita Baker; his children, Mandy Irving, Pam White and husband Keith, and Douglas Baker, Jr. “Bubba” and wife Kara; his grandchildren, Brycee Baker, Brookelyn White and fiancé Tyler Copeland, Lizabeth White and fiancé Peyton Adams, Khoen Baker, Kayleigh Baker, Dawson Irving, Zackary Irving, Makayme Irving, and Annistyn Baker; his brothers, Darin Baker and wife Samantha and Donald Baker and wife April; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Dale Walker officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in the online guestbook at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home.