Farmville-

James Melvin Baker, age 79, passed away peacefully at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville on Tuesday, December 29, 2020. James' journey began March 24, 1941 as a son born in Pitt County, NC to George W. and Effie Jane Wells Baker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Annie Elizabeth Hardee, Elva Grace Nichols, and Desser Marie Corey; brother, Robert Lee Baker; nephews, Michael Ray Baker and Bobby Lee Nichols; great-nephew, Ryan Joyner; and great-niece, Rebecca Lynn Nichols.

James is survived by a loving family including his brother, George T. Baker Sr. (Patricia) of Tarboro; nieces and nephews, Judy Grimmer (Mark), Lisa Parrisher, and George Baker, Jr., all of Tarboro, Teresa Langston (Gary) of Walstonburg, Denise Hardee of Ormondsville, Lynn Hardee of Washington, Alvin Nichols (Jona), Dalvin Nichols (Sol), and Ernest Corey, all of Farmville;  Debra Baker, Nancy Baker, Lou Baker, and Janet Baker; and several great nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 2nd, 2021 at 11a.m. at St. Michael's Episcopal Church Cemetery, 3204 Western Blvd., Tarboro. The family will greet friends immediately following the service. Facial coverings are respectfully requested.