James Robert Baker, Union City Truck Driver and Goodyear Employee, Dies at 69

James Robert Baker, 69, of Union City, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Union City. Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Edmaiston Mosley Funeral Home, with Brother Craig Inman officiating.

Early Life and Career

Born on August 7, 1956, in Lake County, Tennessee, James was the son of the late Robert and Viola (Davidson) Baker. He began his career as a truck driver working with his father in the 1980s. He later spent over 20 years employed at Goodyear.

Community and Interests

James enjoyed fishing and spending time connecting with family and friends through phone conversations. He was a member of Second Baptist Church and the Union City Modelers [2].

Family

He is survived by his wife, Minnie (Cook) Baker, whom he married on November 22, 1995. He is also survived by three daughters, Brittany (Jason) Morphis, Christy (Stoney) Spry, and Crystal (Nathaniel) Pollock, all of Union City; one son, Michael (Becky) Rouse of Union City; ten grandchildren, Kenzi (Blake) Burnette of Dyersburg, Aubrey (Chase) Ward of Troy, Travis (Brianna) Fraley of Obion, Gracie Fraley, Reuben Morphis, Dominic (Harley) Dutton, Jamie Rouse, Megan Rouse, Cassie Rouse, and Mickie Rouse, all of Union City; six great-grandchildren; one aunt, Shirley Webb of Trenton; one sister, Michelle (Craig) Inman of Trenton; two nephews, Jimmy Oliver and Jeremy (Jadyn) Toon, both of Troy; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

Preceding in Death

James was preceded in death by his sister, Brenda Toon, his brother, Robert Earl Baker, and his grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Visitation and Funeral Details

Visitation was held at Edmaiston Mosley Funeral Home from 1:00 p.m. Until the hour of services on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Edmaiston Mosley Funeral Home handled the arrangements. For those wishing to send a flower arrangement or plant a memorial tree, please visit the funeral home’s sympathy store.