Mr. Herschell Baker

Herschell Lee Baker, age 94, of Columbia, South Carolina passed away peacefully on July 30, 2024. Herschell was born in Jackson County, Indiana, to Charles Baker and Freda Emmons Baker.

Herschell is survived by his son, John Baker; daughter-in-law, Linda Baker; granddaughter, Jennifer (Dr. Brandon) Togioka; and great-granddaughters, Ella Katherine Togioka and Brynn Lee Togioka, his namesake.

Herschell met the love of his life and best friend, Mary Katherine Baker, at age 15 and married her at age 18. They spent 70 joyous years together in love. Herschell was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Herschell started working at age 14. He became a truck driver at age 17 and went on to operate his own electrician and plumbing business. At age 18, he built his home out of an old army barrack for his new bride and future family. He was later hired by Reliance Electric in Columbus, Indiana, where he worked 27 years until retirement. While at Reliance Electric, he took on progressive roles from machinist to foreman to maintenance specialist. He was proud of being self-taught, never having attended trade school or college and working alongside colleagues with advanced education.

Herschell exemplified a life of value, integrity, and service to others by volunteering as a deputy sheriff in Jackson County. Everywhere he lived, he was known for his ability to fix anything and everything and used these skills to help military families in Georgia. He considered one of his greatest achievements being recognized as a 32nd Degree Master Mason by the Scottish Rite of Indianapolis, Indiana and as a Past Master of the Medora Order of the Masonic Lodge.

Herschell served as a deacon at the Christian Church while living in Vallonia, Indiana. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed boating, target shooting, archery, and the outdoors.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let your steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

James 1:2-4

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