Today we are here to honor the legacy of Alvin T. Baker, Jr., known affectionately as "Papa," who left us on May 23rd at the age of 81.

Papa was born on April 6, 1944, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Alvin Baker Sr. "Buddy" and Cora Mae Baker - Dawson, and his stepfather, Albert Dawson Jr., who has all preceded him in death. Papa was raised in a home that valued love, respect, hard work, and carried the values that would define his life: strength, loyalty, and love of family.

After graduating from Central High School, he chose a path of courage and service by enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served with honor in the Vietnam War.  After his service, he continued his education at the University of Cincinnati, where he studied business. He was a lifelong student of the world, especially drawn to history, politics, and any good book he could get his hands on.

Papa was a Master Freemason, a title that speaks to his integrity, loyalty, and commitment to community.  He worked for General Electric, Cincinnati Bell, the Cincinnati Public Library, Union Baptist Cemetery, and Cincinnati Public School Systems. He was a true jack of all trades and bootleg. If it was broken, Papa could fix it. If it needed building, he could build it. Whether working on cars, wiring a light fixture, or crafting something by hand, he brought pride to everything he did.

Every now and then he loved to play a good game of "Call of Duty" online with his loved ones.  And when Sunday came around, you could bet Papa was rooting for his team—the Bengals.

Papa shared a life of love and partnership with his beautiful wife, Brenda Hall-Baker, who loved him dearly. Together, they lovingly raised three exceptional children: Terrance Baker, Yulanda Hall "Pookie" (Dwayne), and Tiffany Laffitte (William "BJ"). To them, Papa was a source of wisdom, stability, and unconditional love. In each of them, you can see a piece of him.

He adored his eight grandchildren—Terrance Jones "TJ", Nina Hall "Nina Bena", Jurnee Laffitte, William Laffitte III "Tre", Taylor Laffitte, Isaiah Baker, Olivia Buckley, and Madison Baker. He gave them not just memories, but values, laughter, and a deep sense of belonging.

Gathering of family and friends is from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm, on  Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati  (45206).   The memorial service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 3:00 pm.

Reception/Repast Celebration from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES, 4815 TOWER STREET, ST. BERNARD, OHIO 45217.

To share a memory of Alvin or leave a special message for the Baker family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Baker family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.

Repast / Homegoing Celebration Information:

Fraternal Order of Eagles

4815 Tower Avenue

St. Bernard, Ohio 45217

6:00 pm to 10:00 pm