Obit – Hazel J. Baker
Hazel J. Baker, age 85 of New Middleton, TN, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026 after a short illness at Saint Thomas Hospital.
She was born December 30, 1940 in the Bat Harbor community of Newport, TN.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, James Baker, father, Arthur Frank Click, mother, Zottie Mae Jones Click Hartsell, nephew, Daniel Cox.
She is survived by her son, Larry Baker, grandson, Dylan Baker, of New Middleton, TN, brother, Everette Click, Blountville, TN, Janet Skelton, New Middleton, TN, Nancy Cox, Brush Creek, TN and Vivian Rogers, Duffield, VA. Several nieces, nephews and special niece, Michelle Gregory who was her loyal caregiver. She was very close to her family, including; William, Ashley and Quinton Rogers, Brandon Cox, Tyler and Joelle Bivens, and Katelyn Hobbs.
She graduated from Jonesville High School in Jonesville, Virginia.
Hazel and James married on October 17, 1958 in Jonesville, Virginia.
Hazel was a housewife for many years and was a wonderful cook, loved crocheting and was an avid gardener of vegetables and flowers. She really enjoyed playing card games and working jigsaw puzzles. Later, she worked around the dairy farm, cared for all kinds of animals; domestic and wild. Hazel especially loved dogs and had a few special ones close to her heart; Gypsie, Sheba, and most recently her fur babies, Abby and Sofie who she left behind.
She worked in the kitchen in long-term healthcare in Carthage, Tennessee. Hazel retired from Robert Shaw in Carthage.
She was a member of the New Middleton Baptist Church.
Hazel’s lifelong passion for caring for pets inspired her to open her business, Windrift Dog Kennel. She developed many close friendships through her boarding, breeding and dog grooming business for more than twenty years.
Per Hazel’s wishes a private service will be held. Interment will be in the Gordonsville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Smith County Humane, Carthage, TN or Pet-Agrees Wellness, Gordonsville, TN.
BASS of GORDONSVILLE
