John Marshall "Jack" Baker

John Marshall Baker, affectionately known as Jack, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the age of 67.

Jack was born on March 14, 1959, the son of the late Richard Lee and Jane Meade Baker. Born in Naha, Okinawa, Japan, he developed a passion for travel at a young age. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Mary Washington and continued his education at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he received his Master’s in Climatology and Geography.

In his free time, Jack could often be found watching or participating in sporting events, enjoying music, cooking, working out, or traveling. He loved golf, basketball, and football, and had many athletic talents of his own. While in Nebraska, he earned a racquetball state championship and discovered a knack for Squash during his travels in Dubai. He also enjoyed going to the gym, riding his bicycle, and was an excellent swimmer—even in the ocean.

Jack’s love of travel took him all over Europe, but his favorite place was the Outer Banks of North Carolina. In addition to his love for the outdoors and sports, Jack loved cooking and caring for others. He was an avid animal lover, with a special place in his heart for his cats. Jack had a personality that could fill any room and he never met a stranger. He will be deeply missed for his quick wit and dry humor.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Jane Baker, and his cat, Cooter.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Nancy Baker; stepchildren and grandchildren, Brittany, Adam and Audrey Szczepkowski; Gram, Jamie and Lennon Rea; his siblings, Thomas and Tori Baker and children, Stephanie, Sydney and Seth; Richard Noyes Baker; Marian Virginia Baker; and his cat, Kiki.

A private service to honor Jack will be held at a later date. We greatly appreciate the outpouring of love and support and ask for continued prayers as we navigate this time of loss. Your kind words and thoughts have meant the world to us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Cat Haven (https://www.cathaven.org/donate) or a charity of your choice in Jack’s name.