Thomas "Tom" Baker Jr., age 55, passed away on October 5, 2025, surrounded by family and love.  He was born on July 22, 1970, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Thomas lived a life defined by loyalty, laughter, and love.

A hardworking and down-to-earth man, he was known for his quiet strength, quick wit, and the way he could make everyone laugh — even when he didn't say much. Tom was happiest behind the wheel. He loved a good road trip, even if it was just a long drive across town. But, if anyone ever mentioned getting on a plane or a boat, his response was always the same — with a grin and a laugh: "Hell naw, I ain't doing that!" He liked his feet on solid ground, his music turned all the way up, and his Church's Chicken hot and fresh — even if it meant driving clear across the city just to get some. He never went anywhere without his sunglasses — even though he had several pairs scattered between the house and all his cars. They were part of his look, and everyone who knew him can picture him with those shades on.

For more than two decades, Tom shared his life with Andrea Wright, building a home filled with warmth, laughter, and family. He was a constant presence in the lives of Edrian Wright, Jasmine (Damonte) Wright, and Jessica Coleman, and a devoted grandfather to Mia, Jayce, Omari, Amira, Niala, and Montrell Parks, who were the light of his life. Tom's happiest moments were spent with them — cooking out, laughing at the kitchen table, and cracking jokes that left everyone smiling.

Tom took great pride in his work at Gaslight Property, where he was loved and respected by his coworkers and tenants alike. He approached every day with humor and heart, often saying, "Time to make the donuts," — a line that became his trademark and will forever bring smiles to those who worked beside him.

He found joy in the simple things: fishing, family cookouts, old-school music, and being surrounded by the people he loved. Tom was loyal, dependable, and always there when it mattered most — even if it sometimes took him a few weeks to call back. Tom never answered his phone, and he sure didn't respond to many texts — but everyone who knew him knew that didn't mean he didn't care.  He loved in his own quiet, steady way, and we all loved him just the same. That's something we'll always remember and laugh about — because that was Tom through and through.

He is survived by his mother, Linda Baker; father, Thomas Baker, Sr.; sisters, Regina Zeigler and Fatia Ali; and his children, Antonio Reynolds, Tomeshia Michelle Baker, and Dinikko Waller. He was the proud grandfather of Olyviah, Nikayla, Kahlani, Shery, D'Angelo, and Phoenix Waller; Ja'Mari Deshae Shondel Wilson, Donté Jones, and Tomarri Damoni Wilson; as well as Mia Brown, Jayce Coleman, Omari Brown, Amira Brown, Niala Wright, and Montrell Parks — all of whom carry forward a piece of his love and legacy. He will be lovingly remembered by a host of family members and friends, including his lifelong best friend Phillip Wilkerson, close friend Malik Abdullah, and his dog Jimon, who was always nearby and loved him unconditionally. He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Tommy Herbert Baker, and his nephew, Marcus Zeigler, along with other loved ones who now welcome him home.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on  Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati  (45206).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation,  beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be laid to rest at St. Joseph Cemetery - New , 4500 Foley Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45238.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Baker family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon 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.